• Key leadership role creating proprietary line of toys for Nod with annual sales increases between 20-30%• Design and develop high-end toys from concept through specifications and sample revisions to final product approval• Manage designs for an extensive and widely varied assortment including play tents and teepees, dollhouses, knit and cloth dolls, plush, games and crafts, baby toys, puzzles, rockers and riding toys, costume apparel, large scale hard goods play furnishings and overall imaginary play• Possess knowledge of and experience with a variety of media: textiles, paper, metal, resin and wood• Work closely with domestic and international factories and agents to produce high-quality samples and final goods• Collaborate with licensed artists and designers to shape their work into dimensional and inspiring product and manage it throughout the development process• Problem-solve product issues throughout the sampling cycle upholding design and safety standards • Manage multiple and simultaneous projects under tight deadlines• Periodically travel domestically and internationally to facilitate and expedite the sample making processSee happymonkeydesign.com for portfolio

• Created inspired and exclusive product for The Land of Nod as a full-time contract employee• Designed soft goods, lighting, wall art, storage and home décor products• Responsible for shepherding designs through the development process including conceptualization, trend research, design presentation, sample specifications including 2D and 3D renderings, sample revisions and final production• Collaborated closely with buyers to ensure design parameters met cost and margin targets as well as overall business goals• Participated in the exponential growth of the company where the merchandising department alone grew from 2 people to over 20See happymonkeydesign.com for portfolio