Director, Product Development

About WaterworksWhen you see the world’s most inspiring homes and hotels, you invariably find Waterworks in the mix. For over 40 years, our designs have elevated the bath and kitchen experience, with exquisite fittings, fixtures, hardware and more. We strive to be participants in exceptional design moments not just through our products, but through how our company name shows up in the world at large. 
What We ProvideWhat gives us an edge over our competitors is our people. We work in a highly collaborative, creative environment that values each team member’s contributions to our mission. We empower our associates with extensive training, career growth opportunities, competitive salaries, bonus potential and a comprehensive benefits package including medical/dental/vision, and 401k retirement savings plan. We offer a generous PTO program (vacation, personal and sick time) with additional perks like some summer half days and a volunteer day. The company observes at least 8 federal holidays throughout the calendar year plus a floating holiday that associates can use at their discretion.
The Role

The Product Director, Fittings is a senior business leader responsible for translating strategy into an executable product portfolio that delivers commercial performance, elevates the Waterworks brand, and supports long-term business objectives. This role demonstrates expertise in leading multi-year product roadmaps, global cross-functional teams and delivering measurable results through design integrity, technical discipline and P&L accountability for Waterworks leading product category.

Working within the strategic direction established by executive leadership, the Product Director aligns product vision, operational execution and financial performance with partners in Design, Engineering, Compliance, Supply Chain, Finance, Sales, Marketing, and Digital to execute a focused, profitable portfolio.

This is a hybrid role that requires onsite presence at the Danbury Corporate office a minimum of 3 days per week. 

Responsibilities

Portfolio Leadership & Execution

Translate strategy into executable category plans and portfolio initiatives

Optimize portfolio structure and assortment across Fittings category

Drive portfolio performance through disciplined lifecycle management

Prioritize initiatives and allocate resources to maximize business value

Translate customer insights, market trends, and competitive intelligence into actionable product and merchandising plans

Identify opportunities, manage risks, and recommend portfolio adjustments and investment priorities for executive review

Financial & Business Performance

Accountable for achieving category revenue, gross margin, inventory productivity, and profitability objectives

Collaborate with Finance to develop and deliver P&L for all category projects, annual operating planning, pricing architecture, and investment allocation

Partner with Supply Chain to confirm development and production capacity with manufacturing partners delivers financial targets and growth for the Fittings category

Cross-Functional Leadership

Drive organizational alignment through structured portfolio reviews, milestone governance, and cross-functional decision making

Connect functions across Design, Engineering, Finance, Supply Chain, Marketing and Sales to deliver predictable execution

Lead cross-functional decision making that drives accountability, alignment, and timely execution

Product Development Leadership

Lead portfolio development priorities, governance, and resource allocation to deliver products on time, to quality standards, and within business objectives

Oversee all product development initiatives, ensuring design integrity, technical precision, and adherence to brand and compliance standards

Partner with Engineering, Compliance and Quality, along with external vendors to drive innovation, cost competitiveness, and operational readiness across global markets

Leverage advanced PLM tools and digital platforms to streamline development timelines, product data accuracy, and cross-functional transparency

Market Leadership & Customer Experience

Monitor competitive landscape and emerging market trends to translate customer insights into portfolio recommendations and product plans

Benchmark portfolio performance against competitors

Lead global merchandising strategy to ensure alignment of product assortment with regional and channel needs

Collaborate with Store Design, Marketing, and Digital teams to execute impactful in-store and online merchandising experiences

People Leadership & Organizational Capability

Develop a high-performing Product Development and Merchandising team through coaching, succession planning, and organizational capability building

Other accountabilities as assigned.

Requirements

15+ years leading product strategy, merchandising, product development and business management within premium, luxury, or design-led consumer products

Demonstrated success managing global supplier relationships, manufacturing partners, and complex product development programs

Exceptional business acumen with demonstrated success using financial analysis, market insights, and customer data to guide investment decisions

Proven experience leading cross-functional organizations through influence, organizational alignment, and strategic decision-making

Exceptional communication, presentation, and stakeholder leadership skills

Bachelor’s degree required; advanced degree (MBA or equivalent) beneficial

Domestic and international travel required up to 40%

Our ValuesBe Authentic: Engage in real conversations. Communicate honestly with respect and professionalism.Raise The Bar: Share ideas to uphold our standard of excellence. Never settle for less than the best.Own It: Be responsible for your results. Empower yourself and others to step forward and lead.Partner For Perfection: Collaborate with peers and teammates to deliver superior service to our clients.Love What You Do & Do What You Love: Generate excitement and enthusiasm for our brand and company.
Waterworks is committed to promoting pay equity. Rate of pay is determined based on each individual's experience, qualifications, and the geographic location of the role. Final offer amounts are determined by multiple factors including candidate's experience and expertise and may vary from the amounts listed above.
Waterworks is an equal opportunity employer and does not discriminate against any applicant on the basis of race, color, religion, national origin, gender, marital status, age, disability, sexual orientation, military/veteran status, or any other status protected by federal or state law or local ordinance.