Sr. Executive - New Product Development (Knitwear)

Role Overview: As a Senior NPD Knitwear at the direct-to-consumer (D2C) lifestyle brand, you will be responsible for leading the end-to-end development of knitwear products. This includes tasks such as concept development, fabric and yarn selection, CAD-based pattern making, sampling, and production handover. Your role will require a strong technical knowledge, market research skills, and the ability to ensure that all developments align with customer demand and brand aesthetics. Key Responsibilities: - Drive the full product development process for knitwear, including trend research, design ideation, and fabric/yarn sourcing to final production readiness. - Conduct in-depth market research on consumer trends, competitor products, and emerging silhouettes to inform commercially viable and brand-aligned designs. - Source and evaluate yarns, fabrics, trims, and finishes while ensuring alignment with aesthetic, functional, and sustainability goals. - Create accurate CAD sketches, tech packs, and patterns for sampling and production. - Lead fit sessions, ensure technical precision through pattern corrections, garment construction improvements, and detailed feedback loops. - Conduct vendor and mill visits, monitor development progress, ensure timely deliveries, resolve technical issues, and maintain quality control. - Perform fabric and yarn quality inspections to ensure compliance with internal standards. - Oversee cost management across the development process, ensuring margin targets and material efficiency without compromising design or quality. - Collaborate closely with cross-functional teams including merchandising, sourcing, and production for seamless product handover and launch execution. - Mentor and guide junior NPD team members, fostering innovation, technical upskilling, and collaborative problem-solving. Qualifications Required: - Bachelor's or Master's degree in Knitwear Design, Fashion/Textile Design, or a related field. - 6-9 years of experience in knitwear product development, preferably within a retail or fashion brand environment. - Deep technical knowledge of knitwear construction, yarns, stitches, and finishing techniques. - Proficiency in CAD software, tech pack development, pattern making, and garment construction methods. - Strong grasp of fabric/yarn quality assessment and experience managing vendor relationships. - Sound understanding of costing principles and project management skills. - Excellent communication, negotiation, and cross-functional collaboration skills. Additional Details: Omit as no additional details of the company are present in the job description.,