Director of Product Design - Furniture (Santa Rosa)
PALECEK
santa-rosa, California | May 23
We are passionate about creativity and believe that beautiful spaces enhance the quality of life. The Director of Product Design will play a pivotal role in shaping and executing Palecek’s design vision, working closely with the Executive VP of Product & Supply Chain and Chief Creative Officer (CCO) and the Product Development (PD) team to drive innovative and aesthetically compelling furniture collections. In addition to leading the design process, the Director of Product Design 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. Continuously analyze sales performance, market trends, and consumer insights to refine the product offering, maximizing revenue and profitability Clearly communicate the design vision and inspire the team to develop and execute a cohesive product strategy that aligns with business goals Implement and oversee the approved strategy, ensuring objectives are met within the 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 verbal and 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 approve product mixes to ensure collections maintain a cohesive brand identity and meet high-quality standards. Bachelor’s degree in Industrial Design, Furniture Design, Interior Design, or a related field is required; a Master’s degree is preferred A minimum of 15–20 years of experience in high-end furniture design, development, and production, with a strong background in luxury and custom furnishings Extensive knowledge of sourcing, supply chain logistics, product introduction, and the full design lifecycle, from concept to market launch Deep understanding of materials, furniture construction techniques, and finishing processes to ensure high-quality craftsmanship Demonstrated success in leading product design and supply chain development, with the ability to make strategic, data-driven decisions Ability to work autonomously while keeping senior leadership informed on project progress, performance, and key business initiatives Strong sense of urgency in executing business goals, taking calculated risks, and translating sales data into actionable design and sourcing strategies that enhance profitability and brand positioning Excellent communication skills, with the ability to 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 travel internationally 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
Full-Time