THE ORGANIZATION

As a family-owned company for more than 50 years, PALECEK values integrity, loyalty, and strong partnerships. We are driven to improve, innovate, and inspire. We bring our personal best to every aspect of our business, from our design and craft to our internal teamwork and customer service. We are passionate about creativity and believe that beautiful spaces enhance the quality of life.

Our furnishings and accessories are recognized throughout the world for the unique way they transform sustainably sourced natural materials into works of exquisite style and beauty—and that transformation is the work of talented hands. From growers, suppliers, artisans, craftspeople, and communities halfway around the world, offices in the Philippines and Indonesia, and our California-based manufacturing, design, customer experience, and corporate management teams - the heart and soul of PALECEK is our people.

THE OPPORTUNITY

The Executive Vice President of Product & Brand Strategy will be responsible for overseeing the end-to-end process of product development, marketing, digital marketing, and merchandising departments ensuring consistency across all marketing efforts and touchpoints. The individual will lead cross-functional teams to optimize operations, enhance product offerings, and drive growth and impact of the PALECEK brand.

We are looking for candidates with a passion for the home furnishings industry, natural materials, high quality and design, and a track record of transformative brand management, as well as a deep, intuitive sensitivity to corporate culture and an ability to lead both boldly and collaboratively.

Core Responsibilities:

Product Development Product Planning & Strategy

• Collaborate with designers and senior management to define product strategies, roadmaps, and timelines. Analyze market trends, customer feedback, and competitor activity to inform product development.

Product Development Management

• Lead and oversee the product development lifecycle, from concept to production. Coordinate with internal teams (engineering, marketing, sales, etc.) to ensure product development stays on track. Ensure that products meet design, functionality, and budget requirements. Identify and resolve any issues or roadblocks during the development process.

Cross-Functional Collaboration

• Work closely with marketing and sales teams to ensure product messaging aligns with market needs. Support the R&D team in testing new products and incorporating feedback for product improvements. Engage with external partners and suppliers to source materials or technologies needed for product development.

Market Research & Analysis

• Conduct market research to identify new opportunities for product innovation and improvement. Analyze customer feedback, surveys, and product usage data to refine product offerings.

Product Launch & Support

• Assist in the planning and execution of product launches, ensuring all logistics and marketing materials are ready. Oversee post-launch support, ensuring the product performs as expected and identifying areas for improvement.

Marketing Strategic Planning

• Develop and execute comprehensive marketing strategies that align with the company’s overall business objectives. Drive the long-term vision for marketing efforts and how they support company growth.

Brand Management

• Oversee brand positioning and messaging to ensure consistency across all channels. Work closely with the product, sales, and customer service teams to ensure the brand’s values and promises are reflected in all customer touchpoints.

Customer Acquisition and Retention

• Develop strategies to attract new customers, improve customer engagement, and retain existing clients. Analyze customer behavior, market trends, and competitor activities to refine marketing efforts.

Budget Management

• Oversee the marketing budget, ensuring that resources are allocated efficiently across campaigns, tools, and initiatives. Track ROI for marketing campaigns and optimize spending based on performance.

Market Research and Data Analytics

• Monitor market conditions, consumer insights, and emerging trends to ensure the company remains competitive. Use data analytics to assess the effectiveness of marketing efforts and adjust strategies as needed.

Collaboration

• Work cross-functionally with sales, product, finance, and other teams to ensure marketing efforts support broader business objectives. Provide insights and recommendations to the executive leadership team on market trends and opportunities. Foster a collaborative environment and ensure the marketing department is cohesive in its efforts.

Digital Marketing

• Lead the strategic planning, development, and execution of all digital marketing activities across paid media, organic search, social media, content marketing, email marketing, and e-commerce.
• Develop and execute a comprehensive digital marketing strategy that supports the company’s brand objectives, drives customer acquisition, retention, and overall business growth.
• Oversee the management and optimization of digital campaigns, ensuring consistent brand messaging across all digital platforms.
• Analyze and report on the effectiveness of digital marketing campaigns and adjust strategies as needed to meet business objectives.
• Oversee the budget for digital marketing initiatives, ensuring cost-effective use of resources and delivering maximum value.
• Collaborate with other departments such as product, sales, and IT to create integrated marketing campaigns that drive revenue and enhance customer experience.

Merchandising Product Strategy and Assortment Planning

• Develop and implement strategies for the product assortment, ensuring that the company’s offerings meet customer needs and align with the brand’s identity. Plan and curate product lines to ensure a balanced and appealing mix, considering seasonality, trends, and customer preferences.

Sales and Performance Analysis

• Monitor sales performance, product trends, and customer behavior to inform merchandising strategies. Use sales data and market research to adjust product offerings, promotions, and pricing in real-time to meet business objectives.

Omnichannel Merchandising

• Lead the strategic planning and execution of all product merchandising across all PALECEK showrooms, large retailers, and other key partners. Ensure a consistent product experience for customers across different touchpoints.

Trend Forecasting and Market Research

• Stay updated on industry trends, competitor offerings, and consumer preferences to adjust product strategies and stay competitive. Leverage market insights to anticipate future product demands and trends.

Strategic Planning & Reporting

• Develop long-term strategies for product growth, brand positioning and messaging, and marketing initiatives.
• Regularly report to senior management on performance metrics, challenges, and achievements.
• Identify opportunities for operational efficiencies, cost reductions, and product innovations.
• Track key performance indicators (KPIs) for the overseas supply chain, including order fulfillment, shipping costs, and supplier performance. Report regularly to senior management with updates and insights.

Qualifications:

Key Skills and Qualifications

• Minimum 10 years proven track record of senior leadership role in product development.
• Strong strategic thinking with a focus on organizational growth, operational excellence, and sustainability.
• Proven ability to align business objectives with product and operational strategies.
• Extensive experience in product lifecycle management, from ideation to delivery.
• Strong background in product strategy, ensuring alignment with business goals and customer needs.
• Understanding of market trends, customer insights, and competitive landscape to drive product innovation and differentiation.
• Experience in building, mentoring, and developing high-performing teams in a dynamic environment.
• Strong analytical and problem-solving abilities.
• Familiarity with industry standards, quality certifications, and regulatory requirements.
• Experience with ERP, product life cycle and supply chain management software.

At PALECEK, we take great pride in our product, quality, people-first culture, and all the values our brand stands for. The role of Executive Vice President of Product & Brand Strategy is critical as it will impact all areas of our business.

CONTACT INFORMATION

Search managed by Megan McQuay, Principal. If you are interested in being considered for this meaningful opportunity, please contact:

Ed Pekovic - VP, Search Delivery, [email protected], 416-928-4558

Megan McQuay – Principal, [email protected], 505-348-2982