Senior Design/Development Manager
Cincinnati, Oh
GALERIE is the brainchild of Richard Ross, a creative entrepreneur with an unparalleled passion for candy. The mission is to provide outstanding customer service while delivering fresh, innovative quality confectionery gifts of the highest quality. Clients and Licensors include Target, Wal-Mart, Bloomingdale's, Saks Fifth Avenue, Nieman Marcus, Toys R Us, Barbie, Peanuts, M&M's, and many others.• Responsible for creative direction, design and development of seasonal and year-round product lines for largest client (Target $27+ million in annual sales)• Directed various product lines for clients and licensors (Wal-Mart, Saks Fifth Avenue, Bloomingdale's, Macy's, M&M's/ Mars, etc.)• Extensive knowledge of materials including ceramic, plush, PVC, acrylic, paper, wood, metal, resin, fabrics, glass, etc.• Extensive knowledge of product development process and costing, client margins, product manufacturing capabilities and limitations• Created illustrations, graphics and tech packs for product, packaging, hangtags, merchandisers, stickers, POP displays, kits, candy wrappers and foils• Traveled domestically and overseas to develop product lines• Collaborated with sales and marketing to develop and brainstorm plans for clients to meet their specific design requirements though customized presentations• Directed, collaborated with and mentored team of designers• Experienced in trade show preparation, competitive analysis, trend research• Served on committee to establish separate Design and Product Development Departments