APPAREL DESIGNER & PRODUCT DEVELOPER with 14+ years of experience managing all aspects of the design and development process, from concept to production.

— wovens * denim * knits * sweaters * technical & performance outerwear —

— women’s * men’s * children’s (kids, toddler, infant) —

• DESIGN:

  • Brand DNA, Mood boards, Color palettes, Trim Sheets, Artwork, Line sheets/CADs, Merchandise boards.

  • Analyze other brands at target price-points. Lab dip & strike-off approvals: ensure color and quality consistency.

  • Design hand-offs with fabric/fit/pattern direction.

• GLOBAL SOURCING:

  • Fabric/Trim sourcing in Asia, South America, Africa. Source new vendors with innovative capabilities.

  • Travel overseas to negotiate and design strategically with vendors.

• PRODUCT DEVELOPMENT / COSTING:

  • Manage Costing and Bidding process, Finalize vendor placement

  • Techpacks - use PLM, Excel & Illustrator

  • Manage all Proto, Ad/Sales, Pre-Production & TOP sample approvals.

  • Direct all communication with vendors to ensure adherence to requirements and timelines.

• TECHNICAL DESIGN / FIT:

  • Establish fit standards based on market, historical fits, ASTM.

  • Techpacks, Graded specs, How-to-Measure guides, Construction specifications.

  • Fit session lead, Manage all fit approvals

  • Communicate all issues and pattern changes to vendors.

• PRODUCTION:

  • Manage timelines & WIPs, Ensure on-time deliveries

  • Manage TOP samples and issues, Negotiate/elevate delivery issues.

• DIGITAL PRODUCT MANAGEMENT:

  • Comprehensive Trim libraries, Sketch Libraries, Color palettes

  • Manage flow of digital design assets & support 3rd party fabricants

  • Upload design sketches for publishing, Update assets using scripts and file linking.

• MANAGE / LEAD:

  • Manage PLM implementation - training, build libraries, develop processes.

  • Developed streamlined protocols for Kroger’s Apparel Product Development department.

Contact Me

email: rainer.jens.thoden@gmail.com

cell: 561.789.0626

San Francisco, CA