Lead Product Developer – Apparel Local Creation

About the role

The Lead Product Developer will drive the development and commercialization of APLA Local Creation apparel, turning market‑relevant concepts into high‑quality, manufacturable products for Korea and Japan.

Key responsibilities

• Lead product development across multiple Local Creation initiatives, managing timelines, deliverables and risk.
• Translate creative concepts into executable solutions for graphics, color, finishes, embellishments and material updates.
• Partner with Product Management, Design, Materials, Sourcing, Costing, Quality and Manufacturing to balance design intent, cost and speed.
• Manage sample development, provide technical feedback and resolve quality or production issues.
• Collaborate with factories in China and Southeast Asia to improve execution and explore new techniques.

Required profile

• 8+ years of apparel product development and commercialization, preferably in sportswear, lifestyle or fashion.
• Bachelor’s degree in Apparel Design, Product Development, Textile Engineering or related field, or equivalent experience.
• Strong knowledge of apparel expression techniques and standards in Asia‑Pacific, especially Korea and Japan.
• Professional fluency in English and ability to travel up to 20%.

Required skills

• Apparel expression techniques: graphics, print applications, embellishments, garment finishing, wash techniques, material enhancements.
• Experience working directly with apparel factories across Asia.