Product Development Assistant / Specialist

💡 Role DescriptionAs a Product Development Assistant / Specialist, you will support the development and improvement of products from early ideas through to launch. You will work closely with product, sourcing, design, quality, marketing, sales, and supplier teams to turn customer and business needs into practical product solutions.Your responsibilities may include researching product trends, gathering customer and market insights, maintaining product specifications, coordinating samples, tracking development timelines, and supporting product testing or reviews. You may also help compare product options, communicate feedback to suppliers and internal teams, and keep development information organized as products move through different stages.The role combines creativity, organization, and commercial thinking. You should be comfortable exploring new ideas while also paying attention to details such as specifications, costs, quality, timelines, and customer expectations. When something needs clarification, you should feel comfortable asking questions and bringing the right people together to keep the development process moving.🧩 QualificationsUnderstanding of product development, merchandising, sourcing, retail, e-commerce, or related commercial processes.Comfortable researching products, market trends, customer needs, and competitor offerings.Good organizational skills with the ability to coordinate multiple product activities and timelines.Strong attention to detail when working with product specifications, samples, pricing, and other information.Good analytical and problem-solving skills with a practical approach to product decisions.Familiarity with Excel or similar tools for tracking, analysis, and reporting.Clear written and verbal communication skills.Ability to collaborate effectively with internal teams, suppliers, and other stakeholders.Commercial awareness and an interest in understanding what makes a product useful and appealing to customers.🌱 Curious and open-minded, with a willingness to explore new products, ideas, materials, and market trends.🤝 Proactive and collaborative, with the confidence to share ideas, ask questions, and help move projects forward.