Justin Seale
Founder/Principal · ArchiTec
Los Angeles, CA
In My Own Words
Dynamic, results-driven Product and Design Director with more than twenty years of progressively responsible experience driving successful product initiatives, wholesale, and retail operations within the urban, outdoor equipment, Fashion, and cycling outfitter space. Comprehensive knowledge of all phases of product design, production, sourcing, and costing. Deep and broad familiarity with numerous brands and suppliers. Expertise in all facets of product Development and production. Strong team builder, with proven skill in optimizing individual strengths to peak performance. Demonstrated ability to manage existing product lines while executing new initiatives.
Work Experience
Founder/Principal
ArchiTec2015 – Present
Founder/Principal ARCHITEC, Palm Springs CA 2014-Current Founder/Principal at ArchiTec Consulting. A full service agency focused on providing Insight and oversight into the complex world of Design, Development, Sourcing and Production. Skill Suite: *Apparel/Product Design * Provide product line/range Planning and merchandising solutions. * Product development oversight. * Materials and sourcing direction and oversight * Production oversight with both US and Overseas manufacturers
Product Director
Mission Workshop2009 – 2015
-Conceived and launched a new premium bag and apparel manufacturer specializing in the urban and cycling outfitter space. -Develop and maintain a comprehensive strategic range plan for both sales and product initiatives. -Recruit and manage outside design resources while overseeing production, sourcing and costing. -Hire, train and supervise outside sale representatives and brand ambassadors. -Manage relationships with key retailers and oversee international initiatives. Accomplishments: Generated $2.0 Million in sales within first year.
Sales and Product Manager
Chrome Industries2000 – 2009
-Provided strategic direction and day-to-day product and management for a $6.5 million Manufacturer of high end messenger bags, backpacks, accessories, apparel, and footwear. -Drove new category and channel initiatives while overseeing product design and development. -Recruited and managed outside design resources and while establishing company-wide goals and individual targets. -Established relationships with key retailers and enhanced overall brand identity through a “product first” philosophy. Accomplishments: -Successfully developed, launched, and managed apparel and footwear programs.
General Manager
23 Degrees North1997 – 1999
-Opened and managed a retail store featuring outdoor/urban wear and hard goods. - Established all merchandising and operational standards, and hired, trained and scheduled up to 20 staff. -Successfully implemented a unique niche strategy featuring close-out and winter wear from mainland retailers, targeting the 70% Japanese tourist market. -Performed product trending to direct merchandise to the sales floor or warehouse. -Built sales from zero to $1.5 million within two years.