Product Development Lab Manager Jobs in Pittsburgh, PA

JOB SUMMARY:

The Senior Manager of Product Development is responsible for driving the development and delivery of innovative bedding products across the Company’s assigned brand portfolio, including company owned and/or store brands. This role leads cross functional collaboration with U.S. and global teams to define product specifications, manage costing, and deliver products that meet quality, timing, and profitability targets. Through a blend of product expertise, process leadership, and operational rigor, the senior manager plays a critical role in supporting company growth and performance.

PRIMARY RESPONSIBILITIES:

Product Design and Development

• Oversees the product development lifecycle from ideation to commercialization for various bedding products, including pillows, mattress pads and protectors, sheets, and comforters. 

• Utilizes existing knowledge of bedding products to inform product design, construction, and manufacturing, while continually elevating product knowledge. 

• Studies industry trends, researches new technologies, partners with suppliers, and collaborates with Marketing and Merchandising teams to develop innovation. 

• Builds, issues, and maintains tech packs used to secure accurate costing from component and finished goods suppliers. 

• Initiates quoting, sampling, and quality testing activities, including prototyping and review of fabric, design, and fiber or fill options.

Product Sampling and Tracking

• Works with the sample team, Quality Control, and suppliers to ensure initial and production samples meet design and performance requirements.

• Ensures revisions and corrective actions are addressed as needed to maintain compliance with product standards.

• Partners with suppliers on Timing and Action Calendars for all products that move to production.

• Represents Product Development in product launch meetings to ensure on‑time delivery.

• Tracks PP and TOP samples and addresses issues in a timely manner.

Product Costing

• Utilizes understanding of cost drivers to optimize product performance and margin for domestically manufactured and imported products.

• Oversees quote requests, ensuring accuracy of costs, volumes, and other details provided to the Pricing team.

• Partners with Sales, Merchandising, Packaging, Engineering, Sourcing, and other teams to analyze price files and support margin targets.

• Works with cross‑functional partners including China and El Salvador teams to identify and drive margin improvement initiatives.

Sales Support

• Leads retailer specific development as assigned, supporting domestic and international customers including Mass, Club, eCommerce, Off Price, and other trade channels. 

• Provides product recommendations for sales opportunities in partnership with Merchandising and Product Development leadership. 

• Leads cross functional meetings and tracks projects by customer.

Systems and Special Projects

• Supports Digital Transformation initiatives by developing expertise in Centric PLM. 

• Works closely with IT and cross functional teams to drive continuous improvement in PLM functionality. 

• Supports integration of Centric PLM with Salesforce CRM and other systems.

ESSENTIAL QUALIFICATIONS:

• Bachelor's degree in Product Development, Project Management, or related field

• Minimum of 7-10 years of experience in home textile or apparel Product Development

• Experience with Centric PLM or similar Product Lifecycle Management systems preferred  

• Ability to lead by establishing clear objectives and priorities in a fast‑paced environment  

• Ability to work independently and effectively prioritize responsibilities across multiple projects  

• Highly organized with strong attention to detail and operational rigor  

• Ability to manage multiple priorities, maintain urgency, and work under pressure to meet deadlines  

• Strong cross‑functional communication skills with the ability to partner, influence, and drive alignment across teams  

• Experience collaborating with global teams and external suppliers  

• Strong problem‑solving skills, including the ability to navigate ambiguity and make sound decisions  

• Proficient in Microsoft Teams, Excel, PowerPoint, and Word  

• Ability to foster an inclusive, collaborative team environment  

• Curious, continuous improvement mindset

PHYSICAL DEMANDS:

• Ability to withstand prolonged periods sitting at a desk

• Frequent use of upper extremities to perform keyboard functions and work on a computer

• Ability to occasionally lift and/or carry objects weighing up to 25 pounds