TITLE:     Handbag Product Developer
REPORTS TO: Director of Product Development

About Clare V. 
Clare V. is a line of accessible-luxury pieces born and based in sunny Los Angeles, California. Led by founder Clare Vivier, Clare V. is a distinctive reflection of Clare’s unique background, passions, and vision.  More than 10 years ago, Clare started making the types of bags she wanted, but couldn’t find anywhere.  As the brand grew, she proudly kept production local to Los Angeles, meanwhile forging partnerships with local and global organizations working to make a positive difference in the world. Today, Clare V. remains committed to conscious practices while creating collections that are bold yet enduring, elevated yet accessible, and irresistibly charming yet rooted in everyday practicality.   The brand headquarters is located in the Silverlake area of Los Angeles and is actively led by Clare Vivier.

Role Description:
This is a full-time on-site role for a Handbag Product Developer at Clare V.'s Studio in Los Angeles, CA. The Handbag Product Developer will facilitate the development process encompassing sourcing, sample execution, achieving design aesthetic, quality, and timeline goals.

Responsibilities:

• Work closely with Design and Tech-Design to ensure all tech packs are handed over on time with proper construction, accurate BOM, and feasibility for production with cost effectiveness in mind
• Collaborate with Design to build tech packs within WFX for seasonal sampling
• Launch seasonal material sourcing with suppliers/ vendors and manage material booking for sampling needs
• Process accurate sample requests and allocation of materials and trims to factories/ service providers for all stages in sampling.   Work alongside R+D Manager for CV nominated materials
• Manage and negotiate on the costing of products.  Understand MOQ restrictions, leadtimes, and surcharges to be able to develop within target costing framework
• Lead weekly calls or in person meetings with factories, agents, and suppliers.
• Daily follow up with all factories to provide sample status
• Create and maintain a seasonal development tracker
• Manage all vendor sourced materials + trims and components in sampling accuracy and approval ready for production pass off
• Partner with the factories to calculate average yields for each new style/material. This includes requesting patterning reports and adding the yield to the BOM.  Suggest alternative cutting or placement techniques to improve material yields and consumption
• Work within WFX system /Cost Manager to audit all BOMs and cost sheets to ensure accuracy before the BOM handoff meeting
• Validate and submit all seasonal sample invoices to accounting in a timely manner
• Review development samples, notate any necessary changes in costing and specifications
• Daily follow up and communication with factories on ETAs to track development samples and maintain a seasonal, collab and counter development tracker
• Organize internal wear testing for new development and analyze feedback to improve the product
• Identify and test for specific monogram able styles / vendor sourced materials
• Lead seasonal handover presentation to production team for styles managed; ensure all details are ready at time of handoff including finalized tech packs, thread colors, strike off approvals, costing, detail sheets, etc.
• Manage personal and vendor workflow to hit calendar deadlines throughout the season
• Solid understanding of Development Calendar and able to manage and achieve major milestones
• Travel to overseas factories 1-2 times a year or as needed.  Domestic factory visits on a weekly basis
• Responsible for passing accurate samples and communicating changes to marketing team for photo and ecomm shoots
• Take part in training and managing the PD assistant on sample management and delegating tasks as needed  

Skills & Experience:

• Bachelor's degree in Fashion Design or related field
• 5-6 years experience working in Product Development role for an apparel and/or handbag/accessories company
• Experience working with leather
• Leather handbag development experience preferred
• Organized, great communicator and detail oriented
• PLM experience required. WFX experience is a plus
• Strong proficiency in Excel and Google Suite required
• Must be able to lift and carry up to 30 lbs
• Ability to multi-task and manage competing priorities with a strong sense of accuracy and urgency
• Proficiency in reading and understanding tech packs and bill of materials
• Basic understanding of retail math and measurements is a must.  Patternmaking and construction of handbags preferred

Compensation & Perks:
Annual salary range of $75K - 85K, along with annual cost-of-living increases, end-of -year bonus opportunities, and generous employee discounts.  Plus, enjoy bi-annual product credits to keep you connected with the brand.

Studio Life & Culture:
This position is based out of our Frogtown Studio Offices, located in one of L.A.’s most vibrant and creative neighborhoods–known for its arts scene, local cafes, and laid-back riverside charm.

For our studio-based team members, we foster a work environment that supports creativity, connection, and community.  Perks include:

• A fully stocked kitchen with healthy snacks and beverages
• Monthly catered lunches to bring the team together
• Quarterly team-building events, including meaningful volunteer outing throughout the Los Angeles community

Comprehensive Benefits Package:

We Care about your total well-being—both inside and outside of work. Our benefits include:

• Medical, dental, and vision insurance to keep you and your family covered
• Flex Spending Accounts and Transportation Management Accounts
• Life and Long-term disability insurance for peace of mind
• Paid vacation, personal days, and sick time to help you recharge
• MetLife ancillary plans for added protection and flexibility
• Employee Assistance Program (EAP) offering confidential support for life's challenges
• 401(k) with company match to help you build a strong financial future
  

All qualified applicants should submit their resume with salary requirements to handbagdeveloper@clarev.com.

Clare V. is committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees and welcomes applicants from all backgrounds to apply. We believe that diverse perspectives make for stronger teams and better ideas. We’re proud to be an Equal Opportunity Employer and are committed to creating an inclusive, respectful workplace where everyone can thrive.

In compliance with applicable federal, state, and local laws–including the California Fair Employment and Housing Act (FEHA)--we do not discriminate based on race, color, religion, sex (including pregnancy, childbirth, breastfeeding, or related medical conditions), gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, national origin, ancestry, citizenship status, age, disability (physical or mental), medical condition, genetic information, marital status, military or veteran status, or any other protected characteristic.

We are also committed to providing reasonable accommodations to applicants with disabilities. If you need support during the application process, please contact us at handbagdeveloper@clarev.com.