Job Description

Main Purpose and Major Challenges of the Role

Outerknown is deeply committed to creating a world where people and the planet prosper. Our mission is to protect workers and natural resources, reimagine design, and embrace circularity. To deliver on these commitments, we prioritize innovative solutions and responsibly sourced materials that align with both our brand and industry standards.

We are seeking a detail-oriented Sr. Manager – Production & Logistics to oversee all end-to-end production and logistics operations for Apparel and Accessories. This role ensures the timely, high-quality delivery of seasonal product launches through strong vendor management, data accuracy, and cross-functional collaboration.

 The ideal candidate combines technical production and logistics expertise with strategic vision—streamlining processes, mentoring team members, and driving measurable results across multiple categories.This pivotal role will serve as a key member of the Product Operations team while owning specific development categories from concept to commercialization. 

The role must been in-office 4 days a week, with change subject to business needs. 

ACCOUNTABILITY: 

Production Operations

• Oversee the Production & Logistics Coordinator in the management of all Purchase Orders (POs), ensuring accuracy, compliance, and on-time delivery.
• Track and report on production KPIs, including calendar accuracy, TNA adherence, inspection completion, and booking and clearance schedules.
• Resolve production issues proactively to maintain high on-time performance.
• Oversee bulk approvals, TOP reviews, cost engineering, and risk escalation management.
• Maintain milestone visibility through weekly status meetings and reporting dashboards for leadership.
• Negotiate timelines and actions to ensure on-time delivery.
• Negotiate costs, lead times, and production schedules to optimize efficiency while maintaining quality standards.
• Manage PO readiness, including garment testing, final costing, and pre-production (PP) approval.
• Regularly evaluate vendor performance, providing feedback and making recommendations for improvements or changes as necessary.

Logistics Operations

• Oversee the Production & Logistics Coordinator to partner with factories and freight forwarding companies to schedule and book shipments, communicate handover deadlines, provide purchase order information, and manage all inquiries.
• Communicate with vendors, logistics partners, and internal departments to ensure clear, accurate, and timely information flow regarding shipments, documentation, and deliveries.
• Ensure accurate and on-time deliveries, proactively flagging delays or potential issues and recommending process improvements.
• Perform receiving functions and ad-hoc logistics duties as assigned.
• Oversee the Production & Logistics Coordinator to maintain and validate all product certification requirements (e.g., Certificates of Origin, HTS codes, content requests).
• Update shipment dates and related data in Full Circle and WIP Excel documents.
• Verify and submit vendor shipping documents to Accounting for production shipments and payments.
• Issue and track credit memos and chargebacks.
• Ensure all commercial and shipping documents are properly uploaded and verified in the Full Circle.
• Assist in managing trade compliance operations for international import/export transactions, working with customs brokers and freight forwarders to ensure timely clearance.
• Validate HTS codes and coordinate with customs brokers as needed.
• Manage Duty Drawback Program recordkeeping and audits, ensuring proper documentation of import/export transactions and claim filings with Flexport.

Cross Functional Collaboration

• Partner closely with Merchandising, Planning, Finance, and Distribution to ensure seamless execution.
• Align production timelines and priorities with design, sourcing, and merchandising objectives.
• Foster strong relationships with domestic and international vendors to ensure timely execution and effective issue resolution.
• Travel domestically and internationally, as needed, to build relationships, monitor development and ensure product standards are met.

Process & System Management

• Implement process improvements to streamline communication and reduce operational bottlenecks.
• Ensure data integrity within Full Circle, Backbone, and Excel for accurate reporting and audit readiness.
• Develop and maintain standard operating procedures (SOPs) that support team scalability and business growth.

Brand mission:

• Ensure the alignment of product vision, quality, and functionality with the goal of minimizing environmental impacts.
• Develop and execute product strategies with a responsible purchasing mindset, minimizing waste from over-sampling and over-development.
• Ensure sustainable, circular, and responsible practices are embedded in every stage of the product process, prioritizing practicality and efficiency.
• Encourage innovative solutions to reduce environmental impacts while maintaining design and quality standards.
• Demonstrate a passion for sustainability, circularity, and responsibility in all aspects of product development.
• Foster a high-performing, team-oriented, and cross-functional work environment.

Balancing Multiple Stakeholder Needs:  

The role requires balancing the needs of different stakeholders, including internal departments, customers, and vendors. Ensuring smooth communication and meeting diverse requirements can be challenging, especially when priorities shift.

Provide leadership and mentorship to teams, fostering a culture of collaboration, innovation, and continuous improvement.

ESSENTIAL SKILLS & QUALIFICATIONS

• Minimum 5-10 years apparel production/development experience in domestic and international production. Demonstrate expertise in managing global supply chains and production processes.
• Experience in production, logistics, and product development with deep knowledge of product life cycle processes.
• Strong written and verbal communication skills
• Proficient in creating and managing tech packs, with a strong background in production and product development
• Detail, skilled and highly organized at prioritizing multiple tasks and managing seasonal workflows to ensure deadlines and quality standards are met.
• Strong negotiation skills
• Good people management
• Strong team orientation
• Proven experience having travelled and worked extensively with factories overseas

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