Research Development Project Manager Jobs in Virginia

POSITION SUMMARY

The Project Manager will support the development of products for client’s packaging and supply programs with a strong focus on managing the overall program. The ideal candidate will possess experience with paper and textile packaging components and production processes, as well as data analysis and project management skills. The Project Manager will also serve as the communication liaison between luxury retail customers, internal departments, and outsourced partners in order to successfully facilitate the development phase in preparation for a high volume of production and distribution.

KEY RESPONSIBILITIES

• Research new industry technologies and materials in order to continuously evaluate best practice and support product innovation.

• Provide a comprehensive understanding of each product and/or program that defines function, manufacturability, component cost, tooling estimates, preliminary development lead time, risk and global consistency.

• Effectively communicate customers’ business requirements and specification for products during the development phase of programs and projects.

• Support Master Price List function with the Account Management Teams.

• Effectively manage complex packaging & Non Merchandise programs, ensuring all program and product issues, opportunities, and inquiries are addressed, documented, monitored to resolution, and communicated internally/externally on a regular basis.

• Analyze multiple costing models for each assigned customer project/program.

• Manage projects to ensure design and construction meets all product requirements.

• Build value analysis into new development ensuring the construction and design provides the most cost-effective way to achieve the design criteria while ensuring the best function and quality.

• Own cost control, margin management, and financial breakdowns for quoting, ensuring pricing is commercially sound and sustainable.

• Manage and communicate detailed information to suppliers, customers, and other internal personnel to ensure successful development and transition of paper and textile retail packaging and supply projects.

• Track and follow up on supplier execution, cost tracking, and data management with a high level of ownership and attention to detail.

• Ensure that packages/components meet the needs of the client, and regulatory/environmental legislation. Develop and raise awareness of international business practices and procedures within the department.

• Maintain robust project execution processes, including trackers, timelines, and cross-departmental coordination.

• Daily communication with suppliers and internal stakeholders is essential to ensure accurate, on-time execution and resolution of operational challenges.

• Lead departmental and special projects as directed by the manager.

KEY ACCOUNTABILITIES

• Demonstrate ability to complete all tasks with a high degree of accuracy, attention to detail, and follow-up.

• Ensure professional, accurate, and timely communication to complete tasks and resolve issues.

• Ability to learn quickly and deal with ambiguity when facing new problems; organize and plan for multiple customer accounts at one time.

• Manage various projects simultaneously with a high level of organization and the ability to multitask while prioritizing based on urgency.

• Maintain a high level of confidentiality in all tasks.

• Demonstrate advanced Excel capabilities and strong analytical skills for pricing, costing, and financial tracking tasks.

• Balance customer-facing and supplier- and internal operational responsibilities effectively, acting as the key link between commercial strategy and operational delivery.

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS

· Degree in business or comparable field of study or equivalent experience, required.

· Superior customer service skills, and Excellent verbal and written communications skills.

· 1-2 years of project management experience, preferred.

· Professional experience in the luxury and/or fashion segment, creative design agency and luxury packaging industry, preferred.

· Advanced proficiency in Microsoft Office applications, including Word, PowerPoint, and Excel for completing complex costing model files. Especially advanced Excel proficiency is essential for tasks involving complex costing models, quoting, pricing analysis, and financial accuracy.

· Strong commercial acumen and understanding of margin management.

· Basic knowledge of geography, time zones, and foreign currencies.

· Demonstrated experience in packaging product development (paper/textile) is a plus, particularly within fast-paced European markets.