Job Description
HQ Office located in Richmond, CA
Who We Are
PALECEK values integrity, loyalty, and strong partnerships as a family-owned company. We are driven to improve, innovate, and inspire. We bring our personal best to every aspect of our business, from our design andcraft to our internal teamworkand customer service. We are passionate about creativity and believe that beautiful spaces enhance the quality of life.
Summary
The Directorof Product Development will play a pivotal role in shapingand executing Palecek’sdesign vision, working closely with the Executive VP of Product & Supply Chain and team to drive innovative and aesthetically compelling furniture collections.
In additionto leading the design process,the Director of Product Development will be a key decision-maker in material selection, supplier partnerships, and production processes, ensuring high-quality standards and cost-effective solutions that support the company’s growth objectives. Reporting directly to the Chief Creative Officer, this role requires a deep understanding of market trends, consumer preferences, and competitive positioning.
Description:
- Develop and presenta comprehensive long-termproduct strategy expanding the Palecek assortment through original proprietary designs and product development leveraging our international supply chain.
- Curate product assortments that align with the brand’scustomer demographic and regional
preferences.
- Continuously analyze sales performance, markettrends, and consumerinsights to refinethe product offering, maximizing revenue and profitability
- Clearly communicate the design visionand inspire the team to develop and execute a cohesive product strategy that aligns with business goals
- Implement and overseethe approved strategy,ensuring objectives are met withinthe designated budget while driving positive business results
- Review, critique, and guide the creation of 3D and 2D CAD renderings to guarantee design accuracy, quality, and brand aesthetics
- Establish and adhere to the product development (PD) calendar, coordinating with cross-functional teams to align product launch schedules and ensure timely execution
- Maintain strong verbaland written communication with manufacturers to streamline the sampling process, enhance design aesthetics, and uphold quality standards
- Participate in company-sponsored travel to trade shows and international factories to foster relationships, oversee design integrity, and stay ahead of emerging product trends
- Evaluate and approveproduct mixes to ensure collections maintain a cohesivebrand identity and meet high-quality standards. Identify opportunities to incorporate current design trends while preserving core product offerings and best sellers
- Identify and explorenew business opportunities in emerging productcategories and alternative sourcing channels to drive innovation and growth
- Collaborate closely with sales, merchandising and marketing teams to effectively communicate the product strategy, ensuring alignment with upcoming product themes and overall brand messaging
- Perform other dutiesas assigned
Key Qualifications
- Bachelor’s degree in Industrial Design,Furniture Design, InteriorDesign, or a related fieldis required; a Master’s degree is preferred
- A minimum of 15–20 yearsof experience in high-end furnituredesign, development, and production, with a strong background in luxury and custom furnishings
- Extensive knowledge of furniture engineering, sourcing, supply chainlogistics, product introduction, and the full design lifecycle, from concept to market launch
- Deep understanding of materials, furnitureconstruction techniques, and finishing processesto ensure high-quality craftsmanship
- Demonstrated success in leading product design and supply chaindevelopment, with the ability to make strategic, data-driven decisions
- Ability to work autonomously while keeping seniorleadership informed on project progress, performance, and key business initiatives
- Strong sense of urgency in executing businessgoals, taking calculated risks, and translating sales data into actionable design and sourcing strategies that enhance profitability and brand positioning
- Excellent communication skills,with the abilityto engage effectively with internal teams,overseas vendors, external partners, and key stakeholders at all levels
- Skilled in navigating complex disagreements and facilitating resolution, ensuring trust, alignment, and a shared company vision among internal and external teams
- Desire to seek feedback and commit to continuous improvement to product lines based on team insights, customer feedback, product performance and market changes
- Willingness to travelinternationally for product development trips and domestically for trade shows, vendor meetings, and industry events
- Advanced proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite (Word,Excel, Outlook), Adobe Creative Suite, and AutoCAD
Physical Requirements
- Ability to sit, stand, and move for extended periods,including walking throughoffice, and warehouse spaces
- Frequent use of hands and fingers for computer work, sketching, and handling materialsamples
- Occasional lifting and carrying of materials, samples,and product prototypes (up to 25 lbs.)
- Ability to travel 25% to 30% domestically and internationally for supplier visits,trade shows, and design development meetings
- Visual acuity to assess productdetails, colors, and finishes accurately
- Ability to adaptto various work environments, includingoffice settings, and warehouses
- Occasional bending, kneeling, or reaching to inspect productsor review samples
Pay & Benefits
- Pay range: $190,000- $220,000 per year
- Competitive Paid Time Off
- A flexible healthplan offering medical,dental, and vision benefits.
- Health Care and Dependent Care Flexible Spending Accounts
- Health Savings Account
- 401(k) Savings Plan
- Profit Sharing Benefits
- Generous Employee Discount