Creative Director, Product Development

About the Role

Key Responsibilities

• Develop and execute on creative consumer products strategy across Scholastic/9 Story IP ensuring design and product development align with Franchise and CP strategy
• Collaborate with Development & Production on asset development, ensuring Consumer Products needs are represented, including feedback on play patterns, key characters, locations, props and branding elements as well as design & trend direction
• Lead and oversee Creative Direction and development of Fashion and Trend guides including Branding and Packaging
• Provide creative and art direction as needed to support and enhance products across all categories (softlines, hardlines, FMCG, publishing)
• Lead creative approvals process for all product categories from initial kick-offs through on-shelf launches, collaborating with internal and external 3rd party stakeholders when and where necessary
• Liaise with key cross-functional teams - including Franchise, Development, Production, Marketing and Digital Consumer Products to build brands and support new business opportunities
• Conduct regular market research to inspire innovation within product development and establish unique brand positioning at retail

Requirements

• Current on the latest fashion and product trends
• Ability to clearly articulate creative vision to internal and external stakeholders and provide direction on product and line development while considering manufacturing needs and limitations
• A proactive leader and team player who can both think big and execute on the smallest details
• Excellent project management skills and ability to work under tight deadlines
• Expertise in relevant design and product approval platforms
• Knowledge of the children’s media and CP landscape and general market awareness of brands targeted to kids ages 2-15
• Degree in product/industrial/fashion design and/or relevant work experience
• Minimum of 5-7 years of experience

Nice to Have

• Knowledge of the children’s media and CP landscape and general market awareness of brands targeted to kids ages 2-15

Qualifications

• Degree in product/industrial/fashion design and/or relevant work experience
• Minimum of 5-7 years of experience

Benefits & Perks

• Full suite of health and wellness benefits (including a $0 deductible Medical Plan)
• Retirement Savings Plan 401(k) with options for both Roth and Traditional Contributions
• Tuition-Free programs for undergraduate and graduate degrees
• Generous Parental Leave Program
• Employee Stock Purchase Plan (ESPP) with opportunity for discounted stock at a 15% discount