Chanel Product Development Manager

About Chanel

Chanel is one of the world’s most revered luxury houses, founded by Gabrielle Chanel and distinguished by an enduring vision of elegance, freedom, and modernity. As an employer, the House brings together métiers ranging from haute couture, fashion and leather goods to fragrance, beauty, watches, and fine jewelry, offering employees the opportunity to contribute to a legacy defined by exceptional craftsmanship and creative audacity. Chanel values excellence, discretion, collaboration, and long-term development, fostering an environment where talent is nurtured and heritage is continually reinterpreted for contemporary clients. Its teams are united by a commitment to quality, innovation, and the timeless spirit of the brand.

Role & Responsibilities

• Serve as primary liaison with manufacturing partners on product development and industrialization initiatives based on studio briefs and project requirements
• Participate in collaborative development sessions with internal stakeholders (Product Strategy, Pricing, Production, Metal & Components teams, Creative Studio) to ensure technical accuracy throughout the development process
• Translate studio expectations into technical requirements and propose manufacturing alternatives that balance industrialization feasibility, costing, and creative intent
• Manage prototype panel launches and sample development within collection budgets, meeting quality and timeline specifications
• Conduct risk identification and mitigation analyses with manufacturing partners; develop and execute iterative qualification plans
• Verify nomenclature accuracy, product coding, and technical specifications in coordination with manufacturing partners
• Ensure aesthetic and technical product definition aligns with Chanel's design DNA and brand standards
• Collaborate with Quality teams to establish and refine tolerance thresholds and acceptance criteria
• Validate industrial prototypes and oversee execution of qualification plan sign-offs

Qualifications

• Engineering degree or equivalent technical qualification
• First experience in product development or industrialization functions
• Strong technical curiosity with demonstrated product sensibility
• Analytical and synthetic reasoning capabilities with meticulous attention to detail
• Proficiency in French and English, both written and oral (Italian advantageous)
• Ability to work collaboratively across diverse internal and external stakeholders
• Proactive problem-solving approach with strong communication skills

Skills

Experience

First experience in product development, industrialization, or manufacturing engineering roles; demonstrated ability to manage complex technical projects with multiple stakeholders.

Education

Engineering degree from a recognized institution (école d'ingénieur) or equivalent technical qualification in product development, manufacturing engineering, or related field.

Workplace

Culture

Chanel fosters a culture of timeless creativity, exacting craftsmanship, and quiet excellence, where employees are encouraged to uphold the house’s heritage while contributing to its continued innovation. The workplace environment is refined, collaborative, and deeply committed to quality, offering professionals the opportunity to grow within a globally respected maison that values discretion, artistry, and long-term vision.

About Cerulean

Cerulean is the definitive career portal for the global luxury industry. We match exceptional professionals with exclusive opportunities at the world's most prestigious brands. From haute couture and fine watchmaking to prestige beauty, hospitality, and boutique retail, Cerulean centralises luxury employment to help you find the career for which you were destined.