A conversation with...Tyler Nelson

At J.Jill, we’re proud of the candidates we attract to join our team. Their passion for the business and support of our vision to live in a world where the totality of every woman is seen, valued and celebrated, is what makes working at J.Jill such an empowering environment to be in.?

This month we sat down with Tyler Nelson, Product Manager at J.Jill, to learn more about working in Product Development and the varied aspects of his role which he say keep him (lovingly!) on his toes.

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J.Jill: Let’s kick things off by learning more about your role at J.Jill.

Tyler: I work within Product Development as a Product Manager supporting both the Wearever and Core Dress businesses. I help facilitate and execute the seasonal development for both categories. It involves being a liaison between multiple teams to ensure everyone is aligned on costing, styling, and aesthetic so that each style can be at a buy-ready stage, and we can begin production with our factories.

J.Jill: If we’re honest, that sounds like a lot of fun! What’s a typical day like for you? What would you want people to know that they may not realize?

Tyler: Every day is different and I’m always on my feet, which I love. I could spend the morning reviewing and negotiating costs with overseas vendors, and in the afternoon, I’ll be in a fitting reviewing samples on our model. It’s a nice balance of using my right and left brain and I wouldn’t want it any other way. It takes many people to turn an idea into a tangible product, and I’m lucky to be able to work with so many of these teams at J. Jill.

J.Jill: How rewarding! Tell us a bit more about what you love most about working at J.Jill.

Tyler: Working so closely with the Design, Fabric, and CAD teams, you can feel the creative energy around you while you’re in the office. A lot of smart, creative decisions are being made all day around you, which is an exciting feeling. Also, everyone is truly a team player here. There is a sense that every cross-functional team member wants to cooperate to make great products for our customers.

J.Jill: What’s an example of a project you loved working on or are most proud of at J.Jill?

Tyler: Recently I’ve been working on a special project for Wearever. I think everything turned out beautifully and I’m excited to share it with customers later this year.

J.Jill: We can’t wait to share more with our customers too! Shifting gears, when you reflect on your career what’s the best piece of advice you’ve received?

Tyler: Because this type of work is so dynamic, with changes and challenges happening almost daily, it’s important to be agile. I received this piece of advice from a manager at my very first job in fashion. This is not a career for someone who likes routine, so being able to be open to new ideas, open to new strategies, and open to alternative ways to get to the finish line will help you be a strong Product Manager. The journey from product concept to production is never a linear path. The curveballs keep you on your toes, and that keeps me interested!

J.Jill: We’re so happy to hear that you’ve found the right role for your interests! What advice would you offer someone interested in joining J.Jill or getting started in your line of work?

Tyler: I think if someone is interested in pursuing a career in Product Development, it helps to be a curious person by nature. I also studied Fashion Design in school, but I have another Bachelor of Arts degree in Journalism that I received prior to studying Design, so I’m able to combine my inquisitive nature with my work in product development. I’m a life-long learner, and so I’d say it’s important to greet each day with an open mind!