Manager, Design & PD (accessories)

Manager, Design & PD (Accessories)

The Universal Products and Experiences Group is seeking a Manager, Design & PD for the Consumer Products division. Reporting to the Senior Creative Director, this role is instrumental in driving global brand awareness and studio revenue through strategic entertainment licensing.

The Manager will ensure high-quality product development across all North American categories focus on Accessories for CP from initial concept to final production—ensuring that Universal's film and television properties are translated into consumer products that resonate with our audience.

Salary range: $90,000 - $120,000 (bonus eligible)

This position is eligible for company sponsored benefits, including medical, dental and vision insurance, 401(k), paid leave, tuition reimbursement, and a variety of other discounts and perks.

Essential Responsibilities:

• Design & Product Development: Lead the creation of innovative, trend-driven product lines, including sketching, 3D modeling, and creating color sheets/tech packs.
• End-to-End Product Ownership: Lead the product design process from initial creative concepting through to the final production-ready tech pack phase.
• Brand Integrity: Ensure all designs maintain Universal brand DNA and align with all characters and storytelling.
• Cross-Functional Agility: Support the team in a fast-paced environment, demonstrating the flexibility to take on evolving tasks beyond the core job description as needed.
• Strategy & Trends: Conduct market research to identify emerging trends and technologies, turning them into actionable product concepts.
• Team Leadership & Collaboration: Manage internal designers and external partners (licensees/agencies), provide feedback on 2D/3D submissions.
• Process Management: Oversee the product lifecycle from initial concept through to final production, often utilizing systems like Lunch Pad.
• Stakeholder Management: Engage with internal and external partners to ensure all deliverables meet established timelines and key milestones.
• Process Improvement: Route product approvals to the appropriate contacts and provide recommendations to streamline workflows for maximum productivity.
• Perform other related duties as assigned to support the needs of the team.

Basic Qualifications:

• 5+ years of experience in Product Design Development (required).
• Bachelor's or Associate's degree.
• Proficiency in Adobe Creative Suite (Illustrator, Photoshop), 3D modeling software, and strong sketching ability.
• Demonstrated experience in the development and manufacturing of Fashion & Home, Hardlines, and seasonal products.
• Deep understanding of manufacturing processes, materials, and consumer product safety standards.
• Deep understanding of the full product development lifecycle, from initial concept and design through to the creation of comprehensive tech packs.
• Extensive experience in manufacturing processes, with a high proficiency in materials and technical construction.

Additional Requirements:

• Travel may be required.
• Perform other related duties as assigned to support the needs of the team.
• Hybrid: This position currently has a hybrid schedule, which requires contributing from the office a minimum of four days per week. The Company reserves the right to change in-office requirements at any time.