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Mato Novogradec
Product Manager Apparel at VAUDE
Professional Background
Mato Novogradec has established himself as a highly proficient product manager in the textile and apparel industry, evidenced by his impressive career trajectory that spans several prominent roles. Currently, he serves as the Product Manager Apparel at VAUDE, a leading outdoor apparel and equipment company renowned for its commitment to sustainability and innovative design. Mato has played a pivotal role in product development, ensuring that the apparel aligns with the latest market trends while adhering to the brand's ethos of quality and environmental responsibility.
Prior to his current position, Mato honed his skills as the Product Manager Apparel Urban Life at VAUDE. In this capacity, he contributed significantly to developing products that cater to urban consumers who seek style without compromising on functionality. His inventive approach helped elevate the brand’s presence in the urban apparel market, driving customer engagement and satisfaction.
Mato's expertise is further attested by his previous positions at Reusch International GmbH, a company well-known for its high-performance sports gloves. Here, he ascended through the ranks from Junior Product Manager to Product Manager, specializing in ski and snowboard gloves. His work involved collaborating with designers, engineers, and marketing professionals to develop gloves that meet rigorous performance standards, ensuring they are equipped to handle extreme winter conditions while providing comfort and style.
Education and Achievements
Mato Novogradec's educational background is foundation-rich and directly relevant to his career path in textile sciences and engineering. He pursued an Engineer's degree in Textile Sciences and Engineering at the prestigious University of Reutlingen. This comprehensive education provided him with a profound understanding of textile materials, manufacturing processes, and product development, arming him with the necessary skills to excel in his roles.
Furthermore, Mato completed the "Fachhochschulreife" at Kaufmännische Schule Stuttgart-Süd, strengthening his business acumen. This qualification highlights his versatility, blending technical expertise with critical business-oriented thinking essential for a product manager.
In addition, he undertook specialized training as a Wholesale and Export Clerk in textiles at Gin Tonic Special Mode GmbH. This experience equipped him with insights into the intricacies of supply chain management, wholesale distribution, and export logistics, complementing his project management skills.
Achievements
Over the course of his career, Mato Novogradec has not only advanced through various roles but has also left a significant impact on the brands he has worked with. His strategic approach in product management has allowed him to foster strong relationships with suppliers and stakeholders while consistently delivering innovative products that resonate with consumers.
One of Mato's notable achievements at VAUDE includes launching a new line of eco-friendly apparel that integrates sustainable materials, showcasing his commitment to reducing the environmental impact of clothing production. This initiative not only aligns with VAUDE's sustainability goals but also positions the brand as a leader in environmentally conscious fashion. His ability to tap into consumer needs and preferences has facilitated successful product launches that have garnered positive feedback, establishing his reputation as a forward-thinking product manager in the competitive space of outdoor apparel.
Moreover, during his tenure at Reusch International GmbH, Mato played a crucial role in upgrading their product line through research and development, improving both functionality and consumer appeal. His hands-on experience and commitment to quality have earned him respect among teams and clients alike, establishing himself as a go-to expert for product management insights in the textile and apparel sector.
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