Product Development Manager

Product Development Manager

The Product Development Manager is responsible for leading end-to-end product development, supplier sourcing, and distributor relationship management across multiple product categories and markets. This role oversees the complete lifecycle of product creation from market research and sourcing to launch and post-launch performance monitoring while considering profitability, quality standards, and timely execution.

The ideal candidate has strong experience in product sourcing, supplier negotiations, private label development, and e-commerce operations, particularly within Amazon and Shopify-based businesses. The role requires expertise in identifying profitable product opportunities using research platforms such as Jungle Scout, Helium 10, and similar sourcing tools. This position also works closely with cross-functional teams including sales, marketing, logistics, design, and supply chain to ensure operational alignment and successful product execution.

Key Responsibilities:

A.Product Development & Product Lifecycle Management
• Lead full-cycle product development initiatives for new and existing products, ensuring projects are completed within target timelines, budget, and quality standards.
• Conduct market and competitor research to identify emerging trends, product gaps, and growth opportunities.
• Develop product concepts, specifications, costing structures, and commercialization strategies.
• Manage product timelines from ideation, sampling, testing, and approval through production and launch.
• Oversee private label product development including packaging, branding, product customization, and compliance requirements.
• Monitor product performance, customer feedback, and sales trends to recommend improvements and product optimizations.

B.Product Sourcing & Supplier Management
• Source and identify new products and suppliers using platforms such as Jungle Scout, Helium 10, Alibaba, Global Sources, and other sourcing tools.
• Analyze product demand, competition, profitability, sales volume, and market viability using Jungle Scout and related product research software.
• Evaluate suppliers and manufacturers based on pricing, production capabilities, lead times, product quality, and reliability.
• Build and maintain strong relationships with domestic and international suppliers and manufacturers.
• Negotiate pricing, MOQs, production schedules, payment terms, and shipping arrangements to maximize profitability and operational efficiency.
• Coordinate sampling, product testing, and quality inspections prior to mass production.
Resolve supplier-related issues including delays, defects, compliance concerns, and production discrepancies.

C.Distributor & Client Account Management
• Manage distributor and client accounts through regular communication, scheduled meetings, and relationship-building initiatives.
• Provide updates regarding product development timelines, inventory availability, production progress, and shipment schedules.
• Handle client concerns, quality issues, and product inquiries in a professional and timely manner.
Support business growth by identifying opportunities for account expansion and new partnerships.

D.E-Commerce & Marketplace Management
• Oversee product listings across e-commerce platforms including Shopify, Amazon, and other marketplaces.
• Ensure accurate product descriptions, specifications, images, pricing, SEO keywords, and inventory updates.
• Monitor listing performance, conversion rates, customer feedback, and sales analytics to improve product visibility and sales performance.
• Coordinate with customer service teams regarding product inquiries, returns, and issue resolution.
Assist in optimizing Amazon product launches, keyword strategies, and listing enhancements.

E. Sales & Cross-Functional Collaboration
• Collaborate with the sales team to develop product specifications and support strategic sales initiatives.
• Assist sales representatives in identifying client needs and recommending suitable product solutions.
• Coordinate with the marketing and design teams for product launches, branding materials, packaging designs, and promotional campaigns.
• Work closely with supply chain and logistics teams to ensure accurate forecasting, inventory management, and on-time fulfillment.
• Support warehouse and operations teams with inventory tracking, shipping coordination, and production planning.

F.Reporting & Performance Monitoring
• Develop and maintain tracking systems for product development progress, supplier performance, sales metrics, and inventory movement.
• Prepare reports related to product profitability, sourcing efficiency, sales trends, and operational performance.
• Analyze data to identify opportunities for cost reduction, process improvements, and business growth.
• Monitor KPIs related to sourcing, product launch timelines, quality control, and sales performance.

Qualifications:

-Education & Experience
• Bachelor’s degree in Business Administration, Marketing, Product Development, Supply Chain Management, or a related field.
• Minimum of 3–5 years of experience in product development, sourcing, account management, or e-commerce operations.
• Proven experience in product sourcing and supplier management, particularly with international suppliers and manufacturers.
• Hands-on experience using Jungle Scout, Helium 10, Alibaba, and similar product research and sourcing tools.
• Experience managing Amazon, Shopify, or other e-commerce marketplace operations is highly preferred.
• Strong understanding of private label product development and product launch processes.

-Skills & Competencies
• Strong project management and organizational abilities with the capability to manage multiple projects simultaneously.
• Excellent communication, negotiation, and relationship management skills.
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills with data-driven decision-making capabilities.
• Ability to identify profitable product opportunities through market research and trend analysis.
• Strong attention to detail in product specifications, sourcing, pricing, and quality assurance.
• Ability to work in a fast-paced environment while maintaining high operational standards.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Excel, Google Sheets, Shopify, Canva, and project management platforms.
• Knowledge of Amazon marketplace operations, product ranking strategies, and listing optimization is an advantage.

Preferred Qualifications:
• Experience working with suppliers and distributors in the U.S., China, Europe, and Middle East markets.
• Familiarity with Amazon FBA operations and e-commerce fulfillment processes.
• Experience in quality assurance, compliance standards, and manufacturing coordination.
• Background in consumer products, retail, collectibles, or private label industries is a plus.