Product Developer
Description
Funko Overview
Welcome to the Funko-verse, a world built on pure imagination, a land governed by the philosophy that stories matter, a universe comprised of characters from countless fandoms, a galaxy of once upon a times and happily ever afters.
But what does Funko do?
Welcome to the Funko-verse, a world built on pure imagination, a land governed by the philosophy that stories matter, a universe comprised of characters from countless fandoms, a galaxy of once upon a times and happily ever afters.
But what does Funko do?
Funko is a purveyor of pop culture, making and selling license-focused collectibles. We’re based in Everett, WA where we have a store that delights kids of all ages (kids at heart included). We currently hold hundreds of licenses for franchises ranging from Marvel to Harry Potter, giving us the rights to create tens of thousands of characters—one of the largest portfolios in the pop culture and collectibles industry. We take your favorite characters and turn them into adorable, or sometimes scary, collectible figures. Our most famous line, Pop! Vinyl, has millions of fans around the world.
The Product Developer is responsible for making sure that concepts turn into cool Funko collectibles on retail shelves. The Product Developer will manage projects from initial conception through our art team and into production in our factories. During this process, the Product Developer will collaborate with our external licensors (Lucas Arts, Marvel, Netflix, are a few examples), factories and sales teams to make sure that products are made with the required specifications. This position ensures key milestones and manufacturing/delivery dates are met.
The Product Developer is responsible for making sure that concepts turn into cool Funko collectibles on retail shelves. The Product Developer will manage projects from initial conception through our art team and into production in our factories. During this process, the Product Developer will collaborate with our external licensors (Lucas Arts, Marvel, Netflix, are a few examples), factories and sales teams to make sure that products are made with the required specifications. This position ensures key milestones and manufacturing/delivery dates are met.
We’re looking for an experienced star player who is organized, detail oriented and excel at working with teams to get things accomplished.
*Must have worked previously with a Toy manufacturer.
*Must have worked previously with a Toy manufacturer.
Your Superpowers in Action
- Owns establishing product development timelines and progress on all items assigned for product groups and ensures that set ship dates are met or escalates to a manager if any issues arise before a delay occurs (maintains on average approximately 20 new items per month) with minimal supervision
- Communicate and coordinate with design, licensing, factories, and internal stakeholders to drive products forward through production
- Lead reoccurring licensor PD calls and ensure licensors receive updated line lists regularly as needed
- Works with the art team to ensure creative work is delivered on time and accurately according to licensor approvals, collects and owns initial design specifications including ensuring target costs are met and are within budget
- Create and provide initial product tech packs to the factory’s on time to include all relevant product instructions, material specifications, BOM, EOQ, and required timeline to meet delivery schedules and updates as needed
- Communicates directly with the factory on any questions regarding the technical specs they create
- Ensure product meets costing targets and contribution margins
- Understands product costing and what elements/constructions can change costing
- Understands production limitations in assigned product categories
- Reviews and comments on 3D drawings from the factory and creative teams before sampling in order to make sure samples are as close to initial design as possible
- Review and approve all product samples including packaging for assigned product categories and provides detailed feedback or comments to the factory and other stakeholders to ensure accuracy on all items is maintained such as production quality, intended and approved design, product name, descriptions, images, stickers, legal lines, etc.
- Establishes and maintains rapport with Licensors and ensures that products are produced correctly and have received all necessary approvals and match specifications prior to shipment
- Coach and supports Associate Product Developer(s) and oversees development being managed by the Associate Product Developer(s) to ensure that products ship on time, that there are no risks, and that all items are correct and approved before they leave the factory.
- Partners with Licensing and Creative team members to introduce new form factors to licensors
- Owns and runs product kick-off meetings both internally and with our licensed partners regarding new development to include review of planned line lists, exclusive content, and any product adjustments
- Ensure product information is accurately and properly entered into the Product Development tracking system including the management of data in the product development system as development progresses
- Partners with the quality team to ensure communication on potential risks and solutions takes place to prevent and address issues as they arise. Facilitates product testing in partnership with our compliance group and factories to ensure each item is tested prior to shipment and is documented correctly in our licensor websites as needed and in our internal tracking software
Must-Have Superhero Gadgetry
- Bachelor’s degree in Product Development, Merchandising, Engineering (or similar) preferred; or 4 – 5 year’s related experience in product development/creation in the consumer goods industry (toys, apparel, footwear, etc.) – fast fashion; or equivalent combination of education and experience
- Understanding of and experience with managing product timelines and product creation
- Experience with product tracking tools and software
- Experience with costing, bill of materials (BOM) creation, spec sheet (tech pack) creation, design translation, product and material experience
- Understanding and experience with the product creation lifecycle in consumer goods industry
- Strong attention to detail and organization to keep up with product changes through the development and production process
- Strong communication skills (both verbal and written) and ability to communicate within all levels of the organization (including C-Level) as well as with external partners, vendors and licensors
- Proficient in Microsoft Office product suite
- Must have excellent track record of product ownership and keeping project timelines on schedule and/or communicating to correct teams when deadlines are in danger of being missed
- Strong analytical skills and the ability to solve problems quickly and accurately
Work Environment Requirements
The noise level in the work environment is usually moderate and the employee will be exposed to office noises and interruptions such as printers, phones, and chatter from surrounding teams. While performing the duties of this job, employee will be regularly sitting at a desk and working on a computer for prolonged periods. The employee is regularly required to reach with hands and arms and use hands to finger, handle, lift or feel. The employee is regularly required to stand, walk, talk and hear. The employee may occasionally lift and/or move up to 25 pounds without physical limitations or restrictions.
Salary Information
The base salary range for this position in the selected city is $73,000- $95,000 annually. Compensation may vary outside of this range depending on a number of factors, including a candidate’s qualifications, skills, competencies and experience, and location. Base pay is one part of the Total Package that is provided to compensate and recognize employees for their work, and this role may be eligible for additional discretionary bonuses/incentives, and restricted stock units.
WHAT FUNKO OFFERS
Funko offers a competitive compensation package with full benefits and a 401(K) plan with matching contributions from the company. Most importantly, we offer a creative work environment with people who love pop culture just as much as you do. Can’t wait to gush about your latest binge? Neither can we! Looking for a place where your favorite pop culture t-shirt will receive the compliments it deserves? We know how you feel!
Funko is an equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to age, ancestry, color, family or medical care leave, gender identity or expression, genetic information, marital status, medical condition, national origin, physical or mental disability, political affiliation, protected veteran status, race, religion, sex (including pregnancy), sexual orientation, or any other characteristic protected by applicable laws, regulations and ordinances.
The above statements are intended to describe the general nature and level of work being performed by people assigned to this classification. They are not to be construed as an exhaustive list of all responsibilities, duties, and skills required of personnel so classified. All personnel may be required to perform duties outside of their normal responsibilities from time to time, as needed