Kathmandu: Product Developer

About Kathmandu… 

Kathmandu is a leading global outdoor brand whose journey began in Aotearoa, New Zealand in 1987. We believe out there is where we thrive. It liberates, challenges, and inspires us. Our gear is built to empower, so more people can embrace adventure. It's tested in New Zealand's wildest conditions — because if it performs here, it can handle anywhere. As a proud certified B Corp, we prioritise people and planet in everything we do — out of respect for the natural world that inspires us. Our pioneering approach to sustainable innovation ensures every product is built to perform and made with a lighter impact on the environment. 

We've been out there for almost 40 years living our best lives. Now you can too. Join us on our mission to improve the wellbeing of the world through the great outdoors. 

A little bit about the role… 

We are looking for a Product Developer to join our team at our Support Office in Christchurch, the home of our brand. Reporting to the Senior Product Developer this role is specialising in Equipment, you will be contributing to the development, engineering and specifications processes of innovative and technologically advanced products that meet the needs of the Company's customers and end users. This role is Full time, 40 hours a week. 

Key Responsibilities... 

• Manage the Kathmandu Product Development of predominantly Technical Outdoor category, handling workflow based on the seasonal calendar milestones, maintaining on-time developments to critical path.

• Planning and actively tracking development schedule of products based on the seasonal calendar

• Developing products, recommending materials and construction techniques that meet design expectations and meet or exceed Gross Margin targets

• Managing technical specifications for all new developments and the handover to process with suppliers for prototyping

• Overseeing the finalisation of tech packs and ensuring all products are thoroughly tested to meet Kathmandu's performance standards and compliance requirements

• Collaborating with cross-functional team members to ensure designs are developed to cost, based on target margin, quality and executed in accordance with the Kathmandu code and compliance

• Review, evaluate, and provide solutions to any identified issues highlighted during the development process, by communicating findings to Design, Product Manager and Production teams.

• Building a collaborative partnership with our Suppliers and working teams

What we are looking for… 

• Qualification in Product Development, Industrial Design or Technical Design OR 10+ years of related industry experience with a medium to large manufacturer, retailer or brand

• Advanced knowledge of fitting, pattern making and construction expertise

• High level of knowledge and expertise around fabrications, mouldings construction, print and embroidery

• High level of knowledge in interpreting design details and manufacturing processes

• Experience working with offshore vendors

• Familiar with PLM and well versed in Microsoft Office applications and Adobe Illustrator

• Goal oriented, a critical thinker and problem solver and be readily able to articulate new ideas

• Ability to work in a busy environment

• Superior organisational skills

Diversity, Inclusion & Belonging at KMD Brands

At KMD Brands, we believe that diversity makes us stronger. We're committed to building an inclusive workplace where everyone feels valued, respected, and empowered to be themselves.

We celebrate the unique backgrounds, experiences, and perspectives of our people — across age, gender, identity, race, sexual orientation, ethnicity, and physical and mental ability. We know that when our team reflects the communities we serve, we create better outcomes for everyone.

We proudly acknowledge and pay respect to Tangata Whenua, the Indigenous Nations, First Peoples, and Custodians of the lands and waterways on which our brand head offices reside in Aotearoa New Zealand, Australia and the United States. Their enduring connection to land, waters, and culture continues to inspire and guide us.

APPLY HERE - Join us in shaping a workplace where everyone belongs.

Review of applications will begin immediately and will continue until the position is filled.