Denise Lemons
Freelance Product Developer · Denise Lemons Inc.
Los Angeles, CA
In My Own Words
I'm a creative and analytical product professional with 15+ years experience in product design/development, merchandising, marketing, sales, and project management for global brands in fashion, retail and CPG industries. Proven ability to guide strategic brand direction, identify growth opportunities and deliver data-driven, customer focused solutions. Consistently cultivated solid relationships, leveraging resources throughout to ensure quality and transparency while elevating brands and generating positive ROI.
-Passion for product and providing best value for the customer
-Commitment to LEAN processes, sustainable practices, and continuous improvement
-Expert in product sourcing, execution, and target price points
-Broad experience with Private Label accounts and Licensing partnerships
-Strong written and verbal communication skills
-Ability to synthesize data and effectively report consumer insights and performance metrics
-Knowledge in subscription box programs
-Entrepreneurial mindset with team-oriented spirit
Work Experience
Freelance Product Developer
Denise Lemons Inc.2021 – Present
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
Product Development Manager
NATco Global Inc.2021 – Present
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
Project Coordinator
Sportsheets Intl.2020 – 2021
*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
Senior Product Developer
Footwear Unlimited2019 – 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
Product Line Manager/Brand Strategist
BEARPAW SHOES2015 – 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
Freelance Creative
Denise Lemons Inc.2013 – 2015
Clients: -Sequential Brands Group-Jessica Simpson Kids Footwear & Accessories -DOLCE by MOJO MOXY-TORRID Inc., Anthropologie
Senior Designer/Merchandiser
MIA Footwear2010 – 2013
*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
Design & Product Development Manager
ITC Trading2007 – 2010
*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
