Product Development Executive
Location: Office based in Swinton, Manchester
Department: Product Development
Reports to: Head of Product Development
Bring ideas to life.
At RMS, we create products that spark imagination, inspire creativity and bring joy to millions of children around the world.
For over 40 years we've been developing trend-led toys, arts & crafts, plush, stationery and licensed products for many of the world's biggest retailers. We move quickly, think differently and pride ourselves on great design, outstanding quality and exceptional value.
We're looking for an organised, enthusiastic and commercially aware Product Development Executive to join our growing Product Development team.
This is an exciting opportunity for someone who loves products, trends and organisation, and wants to build a long-term career developing products.
The Role
Working in the Product Development team, you will support the complete product development process from concept through to finished product.
You'll become a key link between our Product Development team, Design Studio, Buying, QA, Sales and our factories around the world, ensuring products move smoothly through every stage of development.
This role combines creativity, administration, organisation and commercial awareness.
Key Responsibilities
Product Development
- Support the development of new products across toys, arts & crafts, novelty, stationery and licensed ranges.
- Help turn customer briefs and trend ideas into commercially viable products.
- Carry out product and competitor research.
- Source inspiration, market trends and new product opportunities.
- Assist with product presentations and customer meetings.
Critical Path Management
- Own the day-to-day administration of multiple development projects.
- Maintain accurate development critical paths.
- Chase suppliers to ensure deadlines are achieved.
- Keep development projects moving at pace.
- Identify delays early and escalate where required.
Factory Communication
- Liaise daily with suppliers across China and the Far East.
- Request quotations, samples and technical information.
- Track sample progress from concept through to PPS.
- Ensure factories understand product requirements and deadlines.
Artwork
· Coordinate artwork requirements with our Design Studio.
- Work with suppliers to complete accurate specifications.
- Check all documentation is complete and accurate before submission.
- Ensure final files are stored correctly within the Product Development system.
- Support the artwork approval process.
Product Samples
- Track all samples from request through to delivery.
- Organise showroom samples.
- Prepare products for customer presentations.
- Ensure all sample libraries remain organised and up to date.
Administration
- Maintain product databases.
- Update development trackers.
- Produce product specifications.
- Prepare meeting documents.
- Record actions from development meetings.
- Support reporting and project administration.
What We're Looking For
We're looking for someone who is naturally organised, proactive and enjoys making things happen.
You'll thrive if you enjoy working in a fast-paced environment where priorities change quickly and new ideas are encouraged.
Essential
- Excellent organisational skills
- Strong attention to detail
- Excellent written communication
- Able to manage multiple projects simultaneously
- Strong time management
- Positive attitude
- Commercial awareness
- Problem-solving mindset
- Product Development experience
- Buying experience
- Experience working with Far East suppliers
- Understanding of manufacturing processes
- Experience managing critical path
Job Types: Full-time, Permanent
Benefits:
- Company pension
- Cycle to work scheme
- Free flu jabs
- Free parking
- On-site parking
Work Location: In person
