We are seeking a Product Sourcing & Innovation Lead to lead our product creation process from concept to launch. In this role, you will collaborate closely with suppliers, internal teams, and cross-functional partners to develop high-quality, brand-consistent products that meet market needs while maintaining target profitability. You will manage supplier relationships, conduct market research, analyze costs, and ensure that every product aligns with our brands vision, quality standards, and financial objectives. This position is ideal for someone who is detail-oriented, creative, and commercially minded.
Product Development & Supplier Collaboration
- Communicate with suppliers to review and refine product designs based on market needs or internal ideas.
- Review CAD files, samples, and technical documentation to ensure compliance with brand standards.
- Conduct regular development check-ins with suppliers, resolving design issues promptly.
- Request, track, and evaluate product samples for quality, functionality, and design alignment.
- Finalize and submit designs for internal review and approval.
- Ensure all products are private labeled and brand consistent.
- Provide detailed feedback to suppliers, requesting modifications as needed.
Cost Analysis & Supplier Sourcing
- Review and compare supplier quotes to secure cost-effective sourcing.
- Analyze costs against sample quality and production capabilities to meet target GP margins.
- Monitor changes in material and shipping costs that may impact pricing.
- Identify and vet new suppliers to expand sourcing options and improve cost efficiency.
- Maintain and update cost tracking documents for products in development.
- Present cost comparison summaries and sourcing recommendations to leadership.
- Recommend contract changes or negotiations based on supplier performance and margin impact.
Market & Product Research
- Monitor industry trends, competitor products, and customer feedback to identify product gaps.
- Research new materials, technologies, and innovations to enhance brand differentiation.
- Compile research briefs for upcoming product concepts, including market demand and feasibility.
- Evaluate supplier innovations for alignment with product goals.
- Maintain a research archive to support future planning.
- Present strategic product opportunities expected to deliver strong GP.
Cross-Functional Collaboration
- Share development updates with marketing to align on launch plans and brand messaging.
- Collaborate with sales to gather insights on customer needs and emerging market demands.
- Participate in go/no-go product meetings, providing sourcing and development input.
- Ensure product specifications, CAD files, and images are accurate and accessible for internal and marketing use.
- Deliver finalized product packages to marketing, including technical and visual assets.
Product Launch Support & Inventory Strategy
- Track launch timelines, ensuring all product data and documentation are complete.
- Confirm dimensions, images, and supporting documents are finalized before launch.
- Coordinate with marketing on launch deliverables and timelines.
- Assess which products should be soft-launched or tested before large inventory commitments.
- Conduct post-launch performance reviews to refine future stocking and launch strategies.
Qualifications & Skills
- Bachelors degree in Product Design, Business, Supply Chain, or a related field.
- 5+ years in product development, sourcing, or procurement (consumer goods experience preferred).
- Strong supplier management and negotiation skills.
- Proficient in reviewing CAD files and technical product documentation.
- Solid understanding of cost analysis and margin optimization.
- Strong analytical, communication, and cross-functional collaboration skills.
- Ability to manage multiple projects simultaneously in a fast-paced environment.
What you can expect from us:
- Competitive salary Based on experience, skills, and education.
- Support for work-life balance paid vacation, birthday flex day, and performance-based earned time off.
- Core Health Benefits 100% employer-paid health and dental coverage, and additional funds for flex spending accounts.
- Longevity Rewards You are an important part of the team, and we value long-term commitment and contributions. We recognize your loyalty and service at key milestones with a gift, pre-paid gift card, or RRSP contribution.
- Tailor-fit workspace We outfit your workspace with tailor-fit furniture solutions to make your work-life comfortable and enjoyable.
- Inclusive and family-oriented work environment You will build meaningful relationships with people who genuinely want to help you succeed.
If you love people and want to make a difference in the workplace, we want to hear from you. CDI Spaces is an energetic team of people who want to make a difference in our community by creating spaces that transform lives.
We believe that every space we create is an opportunity to provide positive change in the lives of our clients and our people. Its about we not me around here, a place where people find meaning, develop themselves, and provide for their families; and you have an entire team to support your goals. Asking for help when needed and rolling up your sleeves to assist someone else are two things we encourage from everyone who works here. Its an environment where it's fine to fail because together, we will find a solution. We build meaningful relationships and genuinely care about ensuring our clients and employees have an amazing experience with us.
Working with the team at CDI is fun, productive, and challenging in all the right ways. We have a wonderful work environment and a team of dedicated, client-focused employees. If you love working with a smart, innovative team and appreciate lunches and celebratory treats, we are the place for you - please apply!