Great products are core to a successful consumer brand and I believe in facilitating fantastic design through the support of high quality product development and attention to small details that most consumers will not identify, however leads them to have an excellent product experience and increases brand loyalty. My sweet spot is Product Development. Prior to my recent stint in Sustainability, I enjoyed directing product and materials development for equipment brands, JanSport and Eagle Creek. I am invigorated by the creative process and seeing my team succeed at bringing compelling products to market. I'm known for being right/left brain; having a unique blend of creativity plus big-picture business sense. I love pushing product boundaries of what we thought was not possible, seeing it come to life, while balancing timelines, quality, and cost.I collaborate cross-functionally, creating go-to-market timelines and implementation. I am known for leading strong teams, utilizing transparency, advocacy for growth, integrity, trust, and mentorship. Recently, I led sustainable materials and products for VF Corporation, parent to 12 global brands, including The North Face, Van’s, JanSport, Smartwool, Altra, and Timberland. My team drove leadership by developing roadmaps toward achieving VF’s publicly stated 2030 goals and Science-Based-Targets. Our most innovative materials investments continue to help progress regenerative agriculture for apparel and footwear materials, advanced recycling, and circularity. I am proud of our accomplishment to launch the first ever regenerative rubber supply for the apparel (footwear) industry and grateful to have led such an incredible team.My areas of expertise include:✓ Inspiring a team culture that is motivating, successful and fun, where everyone is free to share ideas or concerns. ✓Strategy in product development, collaborations with product management directing category expansion.✓Creating and managing go-to-market calendars, budgets.✓Vendor and supplier relationship building with a long-term vision.✓Process improvement. I am available to discuss opportunities for full-time or contract in the Denver or San Diego metropolitan areas, as well as remote. Please contact me at SaraEHillDesigns@gmail.com.TECHNICAL SKILLS:Adobe IllustratorPowerPointSmartsheetProduct specifications in PLM and manual systemsImplementation of 3D design toolsTechnical fabrics, bag and luggage componentrySustainable materialsColor analysisPrice-sensitive designTrend researchConsumer InsightsField testing