Basic Fun! is a dynamic global designer and marketer of classic, innovative children’s entertainment products and we strive to bring smiles to people of all ages. Our iconic brands and broad product portfolio are sold by leading retailers and distributors in over 60 countries around the world. Basic Fun! has an omni-channel go-to market strategy with a strong presence online, in store and in family entertainment venues. The Company is proud to have valued licensing partnerships to include Hasbro, Disney, Mattel, Nintendo, Netflix, Coca Cola, Universal, Cloudco Entertainment, NFL, and NBA. Basic Fun! has a portfolio of powerhouse brands that include Care Bears™, Tonka®, Lite Brite®, K’nex®, Lincoln Logs®, Tinker Toys®, Playhut®, Uncle Milton®, Fisher Price Classics®, Mash’ems® and Littlest Pet Shop®. All of us at Basic Fun! are dedicated to enriching lives and creating unforgettable moments through imaginative play.
Position Overview:
The Product Design Manager will play a critical role in the development and management of our toy product lines. Reporting directly to the VP of Product Development, the Product Design Manager will be responsible for overseeing the entire product lifecycle from the creation and or vetting of creative concepts through launch. This position requires the ability to identify unique innovations that will provide standout products to meet market demands and company objectives.
Responsibilities include but not limited to:
- Product Creation:
- Work with cross-functional teams including design, engineering, marketing, and sales to develop new products and enhance existing product lines.
- Conduct market research and competitive analysis to identify trends, customer needs, and opportunities for innovation.
- Develop creative product solutions and requirements based on market and consumer insights.
- Create 3D mock-ups and kit-bashed models to communicate scale and function if necessary.
- Prepare control drawings, parts lists, and descriptions for the construction of prototypes and tooling models.
- Work on concept development with an understanding of cost and the mechanical engineering aspects of product development.
- Have a good understanding of the toy landscape to deliver competitive items that meet the criteria needed for each toy line.
- Be resourceful on the delivery of ideas to present to the broader teams within the budget.
- Project Management:
- Manage product development timelines and milestones, ensuring projects are delivered on time and within budget.
- Monitor project progress and address any issues or roadblocks promptly during the development time frame.
- Work with freelancers to develop ideas that meet the line criteria to be able to present to the cross-functional teams
- Great communication skills to interact with licensors, freelancers and co-workers
- Work closely with marketing, sales, and packaging teams to develop creative innovative ways to present the product the best way possible.
- Act as the primary point of contact for all design-related matters, both internally and externally.
- Prepare and present new innovative standout product proposals, and presentations to key stakeholders.
- Additional Responsibilities:
- Perform other duties and special projects as assigned.