Jesse Kim
Q What do you do?
“I orchestrate groups of people and glue the necessary pieces together to help bring physical products to life.”
Q What steps did you take to get to where you are now?
A lot of my current work has been through discovery and hands-on experience. I went from merchandising to re-orienting my career path to product development and never looked back. I had the opportunity to work in various Omnichannel and product categories. I’ve built a robust matrix of vendor and factory relationships globally throughout my career helping me pivot to creating my own agency. Luckily, I’ve been able to use my professional and personal bonds to help entrepreneurs with scaling and starting their businesses. A lot of it has been grinding from having a full-time job, consulting, and juggling both.
Q How do you stand out in your field?
I have extensive knowledge in a lot of different product categories but mostly in mostly hardgoods. My portfolio includes kitchenware, cookware, bags, travel goods, stationery, home decor, candles, beauty packaging, paper packaging, novelty products, and toys. I’ve dabbled in some easy fashion items, but I’m not skilled in textiles.
The one ability I do possess that sets me apart from your average Product Developer is that I have a wide network of sourcing partners domestically and internationally. I’m like a treasure hunter and can find just about anything you want. I can also help anyone who is clueless about 3rd party lab testing and can help you with factory audits to meet compliance standards.
Q What are you working on right now?
Primarily, I’m working on world domination! I’m working on stationery, cookware, and kitchenware - all my favorite things. Sometimes I’m a one-man show or I like to bring my close group of friends that are creatives and designers to help with other projects.
Q What’s your style?
I love organic textures, play on lighting, folk art, and abstract shapes with pops of bold accents. I have a very playful side to me that’s drawn toward unique, punchy, and eye-catching designs. My aesthetic changes over time and I consider myself to be eclectic. I believe that everyone should be inspired by their own inner self and let it reflect in their life. You can make the ugliest thing look beautiful.
Q Out of all your slashies, which one do you wish you could do more often?
I am a one-stop-shop, but what really brings me joy is working in product development and sourcing. I love working with creatives on design concepts to development and then getting your products on the shelf. I can also put together your timing and action calendars, project management software, track production, and pretty much get your business running off the ground.
Q What is frustrating you right now?
Supply chain issues and manufacturing delays caused by the pandemic. It is now taking twice or three times as long to get products manufactured overseas. The inflation and raw material increases globally have made it difficult to be as competitive in pricing. There have been some clever workarounds and I’m adapting.
Q If you could hire someone for $20/hour, what would you have them do to make your day easier?
Marketing and self-promoting is a challenge for someone like me who loves working behind the scenes. My focus has always been on my clients and supporting them in their endeavors. Hit me up if you have some tips on how to navigate through IG and Ticktock!
Q What do you wish you could have told yourself, when, and why?
I live my life with full intent and no regrets. Without mistakes and hurdles, you can’t grow. Every part of my life decision has made me who I am today. I even embrace the late-night taco, donut, and extra glass of wine.
Q If you could talk to an expert to gain more insight on something, what would it be about?
I’m a weirdo and I love learning about regulatory and compliance standards for manufacturing. I’m always absorbing and learning about current economic, political, social responsibility, factory audits, and sustainability initiatives that impact global production. I would welcome anyone who would be interested in working on bio and recycled materials. It's something I haven't worked on yet.
Q What kind of opportunities/projects are you looking for?
Small businesses, start-ups, and DTC brands that are ready to pivot. Whether you are ready to create your own products, wholesale, or extend your product line. I’m here to help you every step of the way.
Q Describe your ideal job/client/collaboration.
My ideal client would be someone that is not afraid to take risks and challenge the status quo. The CPG space is riddled with so many similar brands so how do you set yourself apart? I’m also happy to provide guidance on strategic efforts in specific retail and DTC space. It motivates me to work with like-minded individuals that have strong convictions for what they are pursuing.
Q: What is your rate?
I'm open to working on retainer for a specific scope/term or hourly depending on the project. I'm flexible with your needs.
Q How should someone approach you about working together?
I welcome all greetings and salutations.
You can contact me for anything whether you have any advice, questions, or want to collaborate. I love making new friends! Just drop me a line at hello@madeworkroom.com
Q Who is a creative you admire?
There are way too many to list and my interest is always evolving. I feel inspired by living and artists from history.
Here’s a shortlist of designers I’m following at the moment.
StudioPROBA
paumau
Hanne G
Maison de Sable
Q Oh! and… how do you stay creative?
I expose myself to everything and anything life shoots at me. My partner and my friends are artists and they always inspire me. Also, travel very regularly and go to a lot of cultural events.
This member profile was originally published in April 2022.