Apr 2021 — Now
Freelance Product Developer · Denise Lemons Inc.
Freelance Consultant-Denise LeMons Inc., Los Angeles, CA Periodic 2013-2021
*Guide design direction, creative merchandising, and digital content for global B2B/B2 and licensed markets
Clients Engaged: Jessica Simpson Kids, Trimfoot, Eastar Intl., Anthropologie, Brighton, Torrid, ALDO, Steve Madden
Sep 2021 — Now
Product Development Manager · NATco Global Inc.
Oversee art direction, specifications, costing, and proofs, meeting key deliverables for packaging, print, trims, and promotional assets
*Effectively implemented processes, and tools to positively impact productivity, accountability, collaboration, and service
*High level stakeholder engagement, balancing shifting priorities, escalation management, and dedicated relationship building
Aug 2020 — Apr 2021
Project Coordinator · Sportsheets Intl.
*Inform NPD process supporting workflow alignment and efficiency across multiple cross-functional teams
*Own project calendar and scheduling, ensuring adequate resource allocation and adherence of critical project milestones
*Manage vendor relationships, negotiate for cost optimization, coordinate prototypes and sample shipments
*Facilitate weekly meeting schedules, set agenda, formulate timelines for integration and execution
*Develop R&D briefs, procure raw materials, assess vendor capability, certifications, issue RFQ/RFP, QA/QC standard
Mar 2019 — Jun 2020
*Provided creative leadership and execution of innovative product styles for built-in orthotic footwear collection
*Developed directional outsole construction with a fully 3D printed midsole, engineered breathable knits, and designed modular branded components
*Conducted quantitative and qualitative analysis for consumer insights, informing development of best-in-class products
*Initiated daily communication with overseas vendors, tracking development, guiding prototype modifications, and troubleshoot at risk issues
Sep 2015 — Jul 2018
*Scaled business 20% by identifying white spaces bridging seasonal gaps and championing category extensions
*Partnered with Sales and Marketing leveraging metrics and KPIs, identifying key volume drivers for accurate segmentation, market demand, pricing tiers, and ROI
*Increased revenues from Value Channel Retailers 15%, value-engineering MTO designs for target cost and quality
*Collaborated with Macys stores to design “Abominable” capsule collection coinciding with movie release
*Accelerated speed-to-market by implementing lean methodologies, resulting in improved quality and 32% waste reduction
Jan 2013 — Sep 2015
Freelance Creative · Denise Lemons Inc.
Clients:
-Sequential Brands Group-Jessica Simpson Kids Footwear & Accessories
-DOLCE by MOJO MOXY-TORRID Inc., Anthropologie
Sep 2010 — Jan 2013
Senior Designer/Merchandiser · MIA Footwear
*Researched and designed unique, market-right footwear and fashion accessories for mass, mid-tier, and specialty retailers such as Target, Kohls, Walmart, DSW, and Nordstrom
*Achieved margin targets and business objectives, by pro-active oversight of design feasibility, cost, quality, and timing
*Forecasted market trends, monitored inventory levels and OTB planning, ensuring dynamic and consistent product flow for retail and e-commerce channels
*Presented global industry trends and pitched seasonal themes to key internal and external senior management
*Extensive domestic and international travel for trade show, market research, development, and sourcing
Mar 2007 — Aug 2010
Design & Product Development Manager · ITC Trading
*Managed product development lifecycle for over 200+ SKUs/per season with a large variety of footwear brands, categories, and complexities
*Mentored and motivated 5-person remote PD team, composed training manuals, implemented guidelines and SOP
*Introduced new product concepts, sketch/CAD design silhouettes, produced style guides, prepared tech packs, detailed spec sheets, and BOMs
