Connor

The role of the Global PD Director is to Create, Maximize, and Realize New Business Opportunities through Strategic Analysis, Client Engagement, Product Development, and Product & Market Expertise

In this role, you will have the opportunity to work in a fast-paced and dynamic environment and collaborate with our passionate clients and teams.
• You will build strong and trusted relationships with Connor's customers to develop product assortment and sourcing strategies to ensure continued growth.
• Proactive, ongoing customer engagement is required to identify, develop, and drive new product and business opportunities.
• Develop global sourcing strategies for Connor to achieve the company’s growth and goals.
• Identify new customers or categories to maximize and drive future business growth.
• Lead and manage sourcing initiatives for Connor clients across Connor’s global offices and oversee creative problem solving.
• Build and drive strong cross-functional knowledge sharing and collaboration as an integral partner between corporate and global merchandising, design, technical, quality, and other business functions to achieve goals.
• Oversee business development and execute other special projects as needed. You must be able to multi-task with little or no supervision.

Global Sourcing and Product Development
• Work closely with Connor clients (Senior Executives, Buyers, and Merchandisers) to assess and understand client sourcing direction and strategy.
• Identify category and product assortment gaps and growth opportunities by thoroughly analyzing Connor’s client and competitor assortments.
• Collaborate with global offices and PD teams to develop and present new product ideas for various Connor clients.
• Create and lead product presentations for key client meetings.
• Evaluate Connor vendors on their production quality, cost efficiency, capacity, and ability to provide the best product quality-cost ratio for each relevant client.
• Lead in the development and formulation of a thoughtful vendor matrix that supports short and long- term growth by utilizing Connor’s supplier network and selecting the right market and vendor for each client.
• Work with GBD and the global offices to develop short- and long- term growth strategies and objectives for the client and Connor.
• Participate in business reviews to track established KPIs and ensure growth targets are met.

Market Research
• Conduct competitive, market and trend research and analysis through various channels, e.g., comp shopping, social media, Pinterest, magazines, trade shows, trend reports, etc. to forecast emerging consumer trends.
• Collaborate with global offices and PD team to produce market intelligence, trend analysis reports, and mood boards for publication.
• Analyze and interpret market research findings to provide valuable insights and recommendations for new product opportunities and sustainable initiatives, always keeping in mind each client’s brand identity.
• Work with Connor offices and vendors to source and develop innovative materials, techniques, and finishes to inspire and recommend to Connor clients.