Careers

Posted 15/08/2024:

Gold Coast, QLD

Product Development Manager / Lead Creative

About Hardtuned

Founded in 1997, HardTuned is an industry leading automotive merchandise and fashion brand with a global presence. Focusing primarily on the Japanese and European tuner scene we are dedicated to creating fashion-concious, high-quality automotive merchandise and accessories while supporting the car enthusiast community worldwide by sponsoring numerous events and professional drivers. 

Overview

As demand for HardTuned’s products continue to grow, we are seeking a Product Development Manager / Lead Creative who will be at the forefront of our creative efforts. This is a senior role which requires a dynamic individual with a deep understanding of design, fashion and automotive culture, and meticulous attention to detail. 

Your primary focus will be to conceptualise and develop a wide range of commercially successful clothing and products that align with Hardtuned’s aesthetic and appeal to our target audience, working with artists, tailors, manufacturers & the management team. This creative position emphasises the generation of innovative ideas and managing the artistic process from concept through to production stages.

Key Responsibilities

• Generate a high volume of product concepts that resonate with automotive and JDM , Euro & Tuner culture, ensuring all designs are consistent with the brand’s identity.
• Develop & finalize seasonal collections of products and work hard to meet production timeframes so that we are always ahead in product design.
• Identify new product opportunities through trends, market research, and customer insights.
• Create or oversee the creation of detailed artwork for approved concepts.
• Manage the production process with manufacturers, review, and amend sample products to ensure finished products meet brand standards.
• Use Adobe Suite products to provide production-ready artwork and spec sheets for manufacturers.
• Facilitate brainstorming sessions and creative meetings with the team to foster innovative product ideas.
• Work directly with athletes and other brand licensors to produce approved collaboration products.
• Communicate effectively with external partners to ensure timely and accurate delivery of designs in line with a product release schedule.

About You

We are looking for someone who already has a track record with the skills to not only fill the position but to drive the product development to another level with innovative ideas and direction. 

• Proven experience in fashion and product development and creative design projects.
• Outstanding skills in Photoshop & Illustrator, with a strong attention to detail and the ability to work quickly and accurately.
• A strong understanding of automotive culture and trends, or to have an interest and be able learn and adapt to the automotive style we produce.
• Strong ability to work independently, adapt and be self managed to deliver results without micro-management.
• Strong management and organisational skills.
• The ability to collaborate effectively with internal teams and external partners.
• Ability to generate innovative ideas and manage the creative process from concept to production.

Interested in this role? Submit your application below: