Head of Product – Kids Full Time

About the Role

Rip Curl is on the lookout for a dynamic and visionary Head of Product – Kids to lead our global Kids Apparel & Accessories division. This is a pivotal leadership role with full P&L responsibility, where you’ll drive global strategy, deliver innovative and commercially successful products, and shape the future of kids’ surf fashion.

Your Impact

• Grow sales and maximise profitability across all channels and regions.
• Lead the development and execution of global product strategies in alignment with Rip Curl’s vision, mission, and values.
• Collaborate with regional and global teams to ensure seamless integration of product ranges and go-to-market strategies.
• Champion innovation, trend relevance, and sustainability in every product decision.

Key Responsibilities

Strategic Leadership & Execution

• Build and execute the global Kids product strategy.
• Lead trade reviews, range brief submissions, and go-to-market planning.
• Partner with Global Product Managers, Heads of Design, and Regional Directors.

Research & Range Planning

• Conduct market research, competitor reviews, and SWOT analyses.
• Set seasonal range parameters including style counts, sales targets, and margin benchmarks.
• Ensure accurate forecasting and eliminate blind purchasing.

Design Cycle Management

• Guide the design process through PLM stages.
• Ensure alignment with range briefs and RDC timelines.
• Facilitate executive reviews and act as the conduit for market insights.

Go-to-Market & In-Market Execution

• Oversee sales materials, sample delivery, and catalogue accuracy.
• Present ranges to sales teams and key accounts.
• Monitor inventory levels and support all sales channels.

Core Process & Reporting

• Adhere to the Range Development Calendar and 3-Year Plan.
• Analyse sales, margin, inventory, and expense reports.
• Maintain product data accuracy and oversee buy meetings.

Team Leadership & Culture

• Lead crew development, training, and performance reviews.
• Foster a culture of curiosity, innovation, and continuous learning.
• Support sustainability and innovation initiatives.

Personal Leadership

• Be a global ambassador for Rip Curl’s values.
• Challenge the status quo, take risks, and drive creativity.
• Engage with all regions and lead with purpose.

What You’ll Bring

• Proven experience in product leadership within fashion, apparel, or accessories.
• Strong commercial acumen and strategic thinking.
• Exceptional collaboration and communication skills.
• Passion for surf culture, innovation, and sustainability.
• Ability to lead cross-functional teams and influence globally.

Diversity, Inclusion & Belonging at KMD Brands

At KMD Brands, we believe that diversity makes us stronger. We’re committed to building an inclusive workplace where everyone feels valued, respected, and empowered to be themselves.

We celebrate the unique backgrounds, experiences, and perspectives of our people — across age, gender, identity, race, sexual orientation, ethnicity, and physical and mental ability. We know that when our team reflects the communities we serve, we create better outcomes for everyone.

We proudly acknowledge and pay respect to Tangata Whenua, the Indigenous Nations, First Peoples, and Custodians of the lands and waterways on which our brand head offices reside in Aotearoa New Zealand, Australia and the United States. Their enduring connection to land, waters, and culture continues to inspire and guide us.