At Hot Topic, we’re passionate about creativity and high performance. We're also passionate about Pop Culture...in case you hadn't noticed. We’re looking for an Associate Production Manager to partner with our Product Development team in bringing music and pop culture inspired fashion to life.  Apparel production takes a village, and you’re known as the one that’s able to bring it all together. The result: amazing product that our customers love.    This role operates on a hybrid schedule and will require to work from our HQ located in the City of Industry, CA three days a week. WHAT YOU'LL DO * Manage production process from design handoff to finished product - develop and source fabrics, yarns, and trims; obtains approvals for fabric, lab dip, and trims, ensure tech pack turnovers to sourcing partners; troubleshoot and come up with options to resolve issues in development/production and quality * Work closely with the merchant & product development team to ensure vision of product is achieved during the sourcing & production process & updating them regularly on deliveries and production issues * Partner with internal teams like  import, vendor relations, and traffic teams to ensure inbound merchandise is properly coordinated for on time delivery * Work closely with the licensing team to obtain licensor’s comments in a timely manner to ensure on time delivery * Work with overseas vendors to monitor development and on time delivery * Source & start up new factory relationships; negotiate appropriate costs and deliverables with sourcing partners to ensure best margin and quality are achieved for our customers!   WHAT YOU'LL NEED * 3+ years product development experience in retail or wholesale working with overseas offices * Experience working on licensed product a plus * Organized, great communicator and detail oriented, proficient in Excel * Well versed in reviewing garment test reports * Sourcing, manufacturing and costing wizard. You work your magic so much, they call you the Harry Potter of PD & Production * An up-to-date point of view on the latest trends & strategies in sourcing & production * Negotiation is your middle name * Some travel may be required * Team player - you thrive in a team environment and are comfortable giving, and receiving, honest, direct, feedback