Zimpli Kids are pioneers in the kids’ bath and sensory play category, and we are looking for an experienced Product Developer brimming with fresh ideas, to help shape the future of our product portfolio and company at large. As part of a growing company, you will be responsible for driving product development from ideation through to launch, with safety, commercial viability and fun, at the forefront of everything you do!
At Zimpli Kids, we design and manufacture some of the most unique and innovative children’s bath and sensory play brands on the market! We strive to create fun ‘Just Add Water’ products that safely enhance both children’s and parent’s experiences of bath time and sensory play time.
Our ever so famous Gelli Baff and Slime Baff; two Intertek certified biodegradable powders that transform water into goo or slime and back again are the first toys to ever be accredited as skin safe, by the British Skin Foundation. We manufacture most of our products in our ISO9001, ISO14001 and SMETA accredited UK factory and currently distribute to over 40 countries worldwide.
Job: Product Developer
Reporting to: Managing Director
Responsibilities Include:
* Leading the full product development cycle, from ideation to launch, effectively managing timelines, resources and budgets.
* Identifying opportunities to make improvements to existing product ranges, addressing issues to improve user experience where possible.
* Presenting new product ideas to sales and marketing teams for feedback, and Directors, for approval.
* Creating detailed product design briefs for designers and factories.
* Sourcing and negotiating with suppliers around the world, ensuring they stay within key time, cost and safety targets.
* Effectively managing product development timelines, ensuring they align closely with wider group novelty calendar, brand strategy, trend relevance and business goals.
* Closely analysing market trends, competitor products and consumer feedback, using this knowledge to drive the product development roadmap.
* Working closely with the design, production, marketing and sales teams, to ensure alignment and effective product development.
* Having knowledge of toy safety regulations and working closely with test houses to ensure that all potential products meet relevant safety and quality standards.
* Full responsibility for signing off completed projects for mass production, ensuring that final artwork and product contents are to spec.
Successful Candidates will have to show:
* Huge passion for creativity and innovation, with a strong understanding of business principles, including cost management, profitability and market strategy.
* 2+ years’ experience in a similar role, with a proven track record of successful products developed.
* A keen eye for detail and a passion for consumer satisfaction.
* Excellent written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to effectively communicate with stakeholders from around the world, at all levels.
* Experience of effectively managing multiple suppliers and manufacturers at the same time.
* Ability to effectively plan, organise and execute multiple projects at the same time, prioritising your own workload within defined timelines and budgets.
* Ability to effectively analyse data, to identify problems and develop effective solutions.
* Proficiency in design software like illustrator and CAD software a plus.
Benefits
* Competitive salary
* Performance based bonus
* Flexible working
* Non contractual profit share scheme
* 25 days holidays (+ bank holidays)
* Free parking
* Casual dress code