Senior Homeware Product Design & Development Lead

OKA; Milton; On-site; GBP 60,000 - 80,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Birthday day off

Enhanced maternity pay

Employee assistance

Discretionary bonus

UK retailer discounts

Pension scheme

Life assurance

Eye tests

Cycle to work

Social events

Wellbeing centre

Job summary

OKA is seeking an experienced Product Design & Development Manager to lead the product cycle for our homeware ranges, ensuring designs meet market needs and reflect the OKA brand. Reporting to the Head of Product Design & Development, you will oversee concept-to-launch, collaborate with Merchandising, Retail, Ecom and Marketing, and drive timely, high-quality delivery.

You will mentor junior designers, manage supplier relationships, and ensure prototypes and mass production meet OKA’s safety,

Qualifications

• Minimum 5 years proven experience in product design and development within a retail or homeware environment.
• Strong leadership and the ability to manage a team and collaborate cross-functionally to achieve business objectives.
• Excellent creative and product development skillset, with the ability to turn concepts into commercially viable products.
• Strong understanding of manufacturing processes, materials, and product quality standards.
• Exceptional project management skills, with the ability to manage multiple product lines and seasons simultaneously while meeting tight deadlines.

Responsibilities

• Lead the product design and development process from concept to final product launch, ensuring designs meet market demands and company standards.
• Collaborate with Merchandising, Retail, Ecom & Marketing teams to align product development with merchandising strategies and customer experience.
• Develop product briefs, manage timelines, and coordinate with design teams to ensure timely delivery of high-quality products.
• Conduct market research to identify emerging trends, customer preferences, and opportunities for new products.
• Work closely with suppliers and manufacturers to source materials, negotiate costs, and ensure the highest product quality.
• Manage product testing and quality control to ensure compliance with OKA’s standards for safety, durability and design.
• Oversee prototypes and samples, ensuring they meet specifications and are ready for mass production.
• Provide guidance and mentorship to junior team members, fostering creativity and growth.
• Ensure new products are integrated into sales, marketing and inventory systems accurately.

Skills

Product design

Leadership

Cross-functional collaboration

Project management

Tools

Adobe Creative Suite

CAD

Job description

OKA is seeking an experienced Product Design & Development Manager to lead the product cycle for our homeware ranges, ensuring designs meet market needs and reflect the OKA brand. Reporting to the Head of Product Design & Development, you will oversee concept-to-launch, collaborate with Merchandising, Retail, Ecom and Marketing, and drive timely, high-quality delivery.

You will mentor junior designers, manage supplier relationships, and ensure prototypes and mass production meet OKA’s safety,