Nicole Newman

Nicole Newman

Production Manager, Apparel Manufacturing · 5.11 Tactical

Manteca, California

In My Own Words

A seasoned apparel production manager and creative entrepreneur. With a decade of experience in apparel manufacturing & product design. Blending my passion for tech by creating production workflows through automation that saves time, cuts errors, and boosts efficiencies.

Work Experience

Production Manager

5.11 Tactical

2022 – Present

As the Production Manager for 5.11 Custom Shop, I oversee the end-to-end manufacturing process, ensuring that our tactical gear and apparel meet the highest standards of quality, durability, and performance. I manage production schedules, optimize workflows, and coordinate with cross-functional teams to meet strict deadlines and budget requirements. My role involves close collaboration with design, inventory control, and supply chain teams to align production capacity with market demands while managing KPIs and CAPEX to drive operational efficiency. I lead a dedicated team of operators and designers, fostering a culture of continuous improvement and accountability, and ensuring that our products consistently meet the expectations of our customers.

Embellishment Development Supervisor

5.11 Tactical

2019 – 2022

As an Embellishment Development Supervisor, I led a dynamic team of graphic designers, proof developers, and embroidery digitizers, ensuring the delivery of high-quality output to our customers. My role involved overseeing the entire embellishment development process, from initial design concepts through to final production. I implemented innovative strategies that transformed our turnaround times from 1 week to just 24 hours, representing a 75% increase in efficiency. This improvement not only enhanced our operational workflow but also significantly boosted customer satisfaction by providing faster, high-quality results.

Proof Developer

5.11 Tactical

2018 – 2019

As a Proof Developer, I specialize in creating detailed digital mockups for government & public safety uniforms, ensuring accuracy and precision in every design. I am committed to delivering fast turnaround times while providing exceptional customer service to meet the unique needs of each client. My role involves translating design concepts into realistic proofs quickly and effectively, all while maintaining the highest standards of quality and responsiveness.

Freelance Production Manager

NWMN

2017 – 2018

At NWMN, I offer freelance production management services tailored to meet diverse needs. My focus is on delivering efficient and seamless production solutions, drawing on my extensive experience to ensure high-quality results. I handle everything from coordinating logistics and overseeing production schedules to managing resources, all with a commitment to excellence. My goal is to streamline operations and exceed client expectations, making every project run smoothly and effectively.

Brand Manager

Ascot Motorsports LLC

2016 – 2017

-Business Development -Brand Strategy & Communications -Brand Launch and Product Launch: Bates Leathers & Dickies Moto. -Retail & E-commerce Marketing -Manage all wholesale accounts: Troy Lee Designs, Indian Norton OC, Mid Cities Honda, Northerngrade, -Montclair Moto Co., Century Cycles, Tank Farm and more. -Website Development: Shopify -PR/Social Media -On site POS management for all Races -Responsible for all live events/Races with Ascot Merch Trailor

Designer

Miss Kerve

2016 – 2016

Responsible for designing and development of Miss Kerve. Managing from concept, sampling, to end of production. Duties include: - Researching and interpreting key market trends and executing seasonal ranges - Having input into the seasonal fabric and colour palettes to create cohesive monthly collections - Ensure trim sheets and sewing details are provided to factories according to the time and action calendar - Communicate with vendors/factories to ensure letters of credit, payment related documents, production sample delivery, development items, shipping documents, and cost sheets are completed accurately and on-time - Designing and developing products through to sampling stage, liaising with suppliers and merchandising and pattern making teams. -Responsible for all photoshoot production: Location scouting, model casting, styling, and commercial concepts. -Ensuring communication to the sales team to support product indent and sell through http://misskerve.com

Account Manager / Product Developer

JS Apparel

2015 – 2016

-Manages and coordinates all product development projects. -In charge of all the manufacturing from start of production till shipped. -Evaluates and resolves technical feasibility, design optimization, and production issues. -Works with other departments to establish a design, technology, product development, and vendor strategy. -Management of day-to-day client liaison. Responding to emails/calls and acting as first point of contact for JS Apparel on all aspects of the project -Ensuring Creative leads are kept up to date with all project developments and responding to all enquiries on their behalf in a timely fashion -Maintain conversation with and ensure that all involved parties are kept informed of the project status at all times

Web Content Manager

15 Stop Shop

2015 – 2015

- Create, develop and manage content for organization’s web presence. In addition to writing, editing, and proofreading site content. - Work closely with graphic design team when drafting promotions, email newsletters, and online outreach campaigns. - Maintain a consistent look and feel throughout all web properties. Oversee freelancers, including writers, bloggers and collaborating brands.

Model

Freelance Modeling

2009 – 2015

Production Assistant / Product Development Assistant

Hot Ginger

2015 – 2015

-Closely monitoring the production calendar to meet deadlines, preparing cuts for contractors and tracking samples. - Work closely with all members of the design, product development, sales and planning teams, ensuring all tasks are completed by scheduled deadlines. -Assist on the monitoring of QC inspections during production. - Assist in development of new styles. Ensure garment fit is accurate.

Sales Associate

Active Ride Shop

2014 – 2015

Marketing Intern

Obey Giant Art, Inc.

2014 – 2014

Intern

Berri Goldfarb PR

2014 – 2014

Education

Associate's degree

FIDM Los Angeles

2012 – 2014

Interests

Everything outdoors!

Industries

LifestyleMoto & PowersportsOutdoorSkateSnow