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Ester Chighine
SENIOR DIRECTOR OF PRODUCT DEVELOPMENT & SOURCING at Excelligence Learning Corp
Professional Background
Ester Chighine is a multi-disciplinary and compassionate leader who excels in creating and executing innovative product lines that exceed customer expectations across a variety of industries. With over 20 years of experience, Ester has demonstrated remarkable success in textile design, product development, merchandising, and brand management of men’s and women’s accessories, leather goods, furniture, and educational toys. Her expertise particularly shines in developing products that are not only aesthetically pleasing but also align with developmental appropriateness, focusing on categories such as Arts & Crafts, Outdoor Learning Furniture, and STEAM.
Throughout her career, Ester has embraced high-end to moderate price-point markets, consistently driving revenue growth and increasing market penetration in some of the most competitive trade zones. Her strategic mindset enables her to capitalize on emerging global trends and niche market opportunities, ensuring her companies stay ahead of the curve.
In her most recent role as Senior Director of Product Development & Sourcing at Excelligence Learning Corp, Ester showcased her ability to foster high-performing teams. She believes in mentorship and empowering team members to reach their full potential, creating an environment where collaboration flourishes. This collaborative spirit extends to cross-functional teams as she integrates merchandising, quality control, sourcing, graphics, marketing, and editorial departments, streamlining process efficiencies and effectively managing project timelines.
Ester is known for her exceptional creative direction across all facets of product design—from material choice to cost estimation. She prioritizes product safety through rigorous testing protocols and high manufacturing standards. Her presentations to internal executive teams, sales teams, and major retailers are characterized by a hands-on, interactive product demo approach, which enhances understanding and buy-in from stakeholders.
Education and Achievements
Ester Chighine's educational background and professional qualifications have been pivotal in shaping her successful career. Throughout her tenure at various esteemed organizations, she has not only contributed significantly as a leader but has also gained invaluable knowledge and skills that have propelled her career forward.
Starting her career as a Merchandiser and Product Development Associate at Superba Inc, Ester quickly climbed the corporate ladder, demonstrating her commitment to excellence and her innovative approach to product development. Her subsequent roles, including that of Senior Merchandiser at Randa Accessories, allowed her to hone her skills further in merchandising and the strategic aspects of product design.
Her tenure as Director - Design, Product Development & Merchandise at Robert Talbott marked a significant turning point in her career. During this period, she focused on creating high-quality products that met the sophisticated tastes of consumers while maintaining cost-effectiveness through strategic sourcing. Furthermore, as a Full-Time Consultant for Design & Product Development at Jos. A. Bank Clothiers, Ester made notable contributions to the company’s line of fashionable clothing, further establishing herself as a versatile and knowledgeable leader in the industry.
After several prominent roles at Excelligence Learning Corp, where she started as a Product Development Manager and progressed to Senior Director, Ester's legacy continues to influence the company’s success in the educational toys sector. Her strategies have led to increased market share and innovation in product offerings, particularly in educational and developmental categories.
Achievements
Ester Chighine's career is marked by a series of impressive achievements that illustrate her ability to lead, innovate, and drive success. A few highlights include:
- Spearheaded the development of a diverse range of product lines that cater to both high-end and moderate price points, successfully meeting varied consumer needs and preferences.
- Achieved significant revenue growth and strengthened market presence by leveraging emerging global trends and exploring niche markets, showcasing her ability to anticipate and react to market dynamics effectively.
- Established strategic partnerships with key vendors and customers, fostering long-term relationships that have proven beneficial for meeting business objectives and enhancing product offerings.
- Created and led high-performing teams through effective mentorship, empowering team members to excel and contribute creatively, which led to an increase in productivity and morale.
- Integrated various departments to promote collaboration and efficiency, significantly improving project timelines and overall operational effectiveness.
- Successfully presented innovative product ideas to executive teams and major retailers in engaging and interactive formats, helping to secure buy-in and enhance business relationships.
Ester Chighine is an embodiment of leadership acumen, creativity, and a relentless drive for innovation. Her passion for product excellence is complemented by her strategic insight and ability to connect with individuals at all levels across an organization. Her remarkable journey is not only a testament to her capabilities but also an inspiration to all aspiring professionals in product development and merchandising. As Ester continues to make strides in her career, she remains a passionate advocate for developing products that are not only beautiful but also serve educational purposes, contributing meaningfully to the development of children and families alike.
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