Position Overview Waggle is seeking a visionary, detail-driven and highly collaborative Director of Merchandising to lead product development and merchandising strategy across our growing brand. Reporting to the VP of Brand, this role is responsible for overseeing end-to-end product lifecycle—from concept and seasonal line planning to fabric sourcing, vendor communication, market launch and eventual withdrawal. This individual will own the product vision and collaborate cross-functionally with Creative, Marketing, Retail, Sales & Operations to ensure merchandise strategy reflects evolving customer needs, fashion trends, brand identity and company goals. The ideal candidate blends strong creative instinct with operational excellence and thrives in a fast-paced environment. Key Responsibilities Product Strategy & Line Planning • Define and execute seasonal product line plans across all categories, aligning with company goals and consumer insights • Conduct trend research, competitive benchmarking and consumer analysis to identify market gaps and opportunities • Lead product lifecycle planning, ensuring milestones and deliverables are met across design, development and production calendars Product Design & Development • Lead a growing team of product designers from initial concept through final design execution • Oversee tech pack development, prototyping and approvals to ensure accuracy, innovation and consistency • Guide material and trim selection, silhouette development and construction details in partnership with internal and external collaborators • Share product insights with Creative Director, ensuring apparel graphics and colorways uphold brand identity and meet market trends/needs • Ensure all product aligns with Waggle’s brand identity, fit standards and quality expectations Fabric Sourcing & Vendor Management • Identify, evaluate and manage global sourcing partners and fabric mills to support quality, cost and delivery goals • Serve as a key liaison with production and manufacturing partners to maintain timelines and resolve development issues • Negotiate terms, pricing and lead times while maintaining quality control across vendors Cross-functional Leadership & Collaboration • Work cross-functionally with Retail Operations team to ensure in-store product presentation reflects seasonal direction and supports sales objectives • Provide recommendations to creative and marketing teams for how products should be styled and presented in photography, catalog, digital content and additional campaigns • Collaborate with marketing team to provide product insight and merchandising support for seasonal campaigns and product launches • Support Waggle sponsored events as needed • Other duties as assigned Team Building & Leadership • Recruit, develop and lead a high-performing merchandising and product design team • Foster a culture of collaboration, curiosity and creativity while holding high standards for execution and product excellence • Own team processes, creative briefs, timelines and resource planning as the team scales Required Qualifications • 6-8 years of experience in merchandising, product design or product development in apparel or consumer lifestyle brands • Proven success in leading product creation from concept through production with strong results in both creativity and process execution • Experience building and mentoring design teams, and leading cross-functional collaboration with sourcing and production partners • Expertise in interpreting trends, customer data and market research into successful product assortments • Strong organizational and leadership skills; ability to manage multiple product timelines simultaneously • Passion for brand storytelling, customer experience and community-driven product development Preferred Qualifications • Experience in a hybrid direct-to-consumer and retail environment, with understanding of both merchandising and in-store product presentation strategy • Advanced understanding of design development, tech packs, fit processes and material sourcing • Efficient in Adobe Cloud software, Onbrand PLM system or similar and CAD/digital sketch creation • Experience working with creative and retail operations teams to align visual and functional product execution • Background in sports, golf or performance/lifestyle apparel Benefits • Flexible hybrid work environment (3 days in office required) • Simple IRA and/or ROTH with company match • Health Insurance (Medical, Dental, Vision, FSA) • Employer-Sponsored Life/AD&D Insurance • Paid Time Off • Apparel & Gifting Allowance Compensation: $120,000 - $130,000 annually, depending on experience Please note: This position is based in our current office in Roseville, MN. However, we will be relocating to our new headquarters in Blaine, MN this fall. Candidates should be comfortable commuting to Blaine once the transition is complete.