Senior Product Developer and Designer

Solbari, Port Melbourne, Victoria, Australia Senior Product Developer and Designer Solbari is a proudly Australian market leader, providing a stylish selection of UPF50+ sun smart apparel and accessories worldwide. A global success story, we are a B Corp certified brand who are united in our purpose of empowering people to live a sun smart life. We're seeking a Senior Product Developer and Designer to lead our product development and design cycle and team, from concept to production. In this leadership role, you'll drive the creation of our UPF50+ apparel, accessories and sun hats, ensuring every product meets our exacting quality standards while delivering exceptional style and sun protection. You'll be instrumental in shaping our product strategy, mentoring the product development team, and partnering closely with Production and Planning teams to bring innovative, profitable products to market. If you're passionate about technical apparel design and ready to make a meaningful impact in sun protection, this is your opportunity. Key responsibility areas Leading the end-to-end product development and design process for sun hats, accessories and clothing ranges, ensuring alignment with brand vision and commercial objectives. Managing and mentoring the Product Development team providing guidance, feedback and strategic leadership. Driving quality excellence across all product categories, establishing and maintaining rigorous quality standards and testing protocols. Partnering strategically with Production and Planning teams to optimise product development timelines, manage capacity and ensure seamless production launches. Cultivating productive supplier relationships, ensuring optimal performance, compliance with technical specifications, and continuous improvement in the product development cycle. Leading design direction and innovation, conducting comprehensive trend analysis and competitive research to inform product strategy. Directing fit sessions and sample approval processes, ensuring garments, sun hats and accessories meet precise technical and aesthetic specifications. Developing and maintaining comprehensive technical documentation including tech packs, CADs, and specification sheets. Managing internal and external testing programs for materials, fabrication and finished products, ensuring all UPF and quality requirements are met. Creating and reviewing all product descriptions for e-commerce sites and wholesale partners, ensuring technical accuracy, brand consistency and compelling communication of UPF benefits and product features. Working closely with Sales leads to strategically differentiate product offerings between wholesale and retail sales channels, developing tailored assortments that meet distinct market needs while optimising profitability. Collaborating with cross-functional teams including Marketing, Sales and Operations to ensure product alignment with business goals. Skills & experience Minimum 8 years' experience in technical apparel product development, with expertise in UPF/outdoor wear and sun hats an advantage. Demonstrated leadership experience, including team management and mentoring. Degree in Fashion Design, Textile Design, Technical Apparel or related field. Advanced proficiency in Adobe Creative Suite (Illustrator, Photoshop) and Microsoft Office Suite. Strong technical knowledge of garment construction, fabric performance characteristics, and UPF testing standards. Proven track record of managing complex product development cycles and delivering to critical path deadlines. Exceptional attention to detail with strong commercial acumen and cost management skills. Strategic thinker with ability to balance creativity, technical requirements and business objectives. Excellent communication and stakeholder management skills, with experience negotiating with international suppliers. Ability to work effectively in a fast-paced, entrepreneurial environment. Strong problem-solving skills with a hands‑on, solutions‑focused approach. Passion for sustainability and creating products that make a positive difference. Why work with us A values‑driven and supportive team environment Free onsite parking Coffee, snacks and team connection Great product allowance and discounts If this sounds like an opportunity for you, please apply with your CV and a cover letter. Please note, only shortlisted candidates will be contacted by Solbari – thank you for taking the time to apply. Solbari believes in the benefits of a diverse and inclusive workplace and aims to reflect the varied cultures within which we exist. We are committed to providing a working environment that is free from discrimination and harassment, creating a safe and inclusive environment for all. We encourage applications from people of all ages, nationalities, religions, racial and gender identities, sexual orientations, abilities and cultures, and our hiring decisions will be based on business needs, position requirements, and the qualifications and experience of individuals. If you require support or assistance during the application process, please notify us at the time of application and we will be sure to enable reasonable adjustments where suitable. Seniority level Mid-Senior level Employment type Full-time Job function Product Management and Marketing Industries Wellness and Fitness Services #J-18808-Ljbffr