Director, Product Development & Strategy

General Summary

Drive strategic product offerings based on consumer needs to achieve revenue and EBITDA objectives. Accountable for creating and executing the lens and contact lens product strategy, optical lens product development and creating go-to-market strategies to support wholesale and retail, leveraging consumer trends, market insights and technical design concepts for the Proprietary Branded lens products.

Essential Functions

Responsible for generating millions in net revenue and EBITDA annually.

Align product offerings with each channel's consumer segment delivering GMROI, sales and COGS rate.

Responsible for the research, development and technical design of progressive lenses, anti-reflective coatings, and photochromic lenses with a market leading mindset.

Evolve proprietary lens and coating brands to drive marketplace growth.

Partner with internal and external vendors to source high quality product that meets margin and inventory requirements.

Work closely with Global Sourcing, frame design, marketing, planning, visual merchandising, clinical teams, sales, and store operations to ensure seamless product launches.

Analyze sales data and market trends to identify white space to maximize profitability and inventory turnover.

Manage and develop a product team, fostering a high-performance culture.

Job Specifications

Typically has the following skills or abilities:

Bachelor's degree of science or engineering focused on chemical, mechanical, industrial, or electrical engineering or a related field or equivalent experience; Minimum of 2 additional years of experience related to functional area.

Minimum of 6 years of management experience with responsibilities for hiring, training, assigning work and managing performance of direct reports

Global mindset and cultural sensitivity

Experience in merchandising, product development, planning or R&D, or related fields with a proven track record of leadership and achievement in similar roles.

Experience with clear progression to senior leadership/management roles, leading a motivating cross-functional interdisciplinary teams to achieve strategic goals.

Proven track record over multiple years as Product Leader, successfully driving sales and profits through the introduction of new products

Possess deep knowledge of optical industry, including lens design, manufacturing processes, and distribution eco-system; adept at building strategic relationships and leveraging resources to drive innovation in lens category

Manage complex projects where independent action, high degree of initiative and coordination across departments is required

Current understanding of automated systems, data, technology and experience in implementing significant process and system changes.

Proven ability to work in partnership with other leaders and external customers to accomplish objectives.

Proven analytical, problem solving, presentation, negotiation, and strategic thinking skills.

Ability to foster constructive and collaborative relationships.

Excellent negotiation and communication skills

Strong interpersonal skills and ability to lead, champion, and inspire teams

Ability to regularly exercise discretion and independent judgment in the performance of his/her job duties.

Working Conditions

The working environment is generally favorable. Lighting and temperature are adequate, and there are no hazardous or unpleasant conditions caused by noise, dust etc.

The above information in this description has been designed to indicate the general nature and level of work performed by employees within this classification. It is not designed to contain or be interpreted as a comprehensive inventory of all duties, responsibilities and qualifications required of employees assigned to this job.