Professional Summary
Professional Overview
Julia Handleman is a highly accomplished Senior Director of Product Development & Technical Design with extensive expertise in the fashion and sportswear industry. She specializes in driving innovative product design, strategic line planning, and holistic organizational development to deliver exceptional results.
Experience Summary
Current Role
As the Senior Director of Product Development & Technical Design at Beyond Yoga, Julia oversees all aspects of product creation from concept to commercialization. She leads a team of designers and technical experts to develop cutting-edge activewear that combines superior functionality, exceptional fit, and on-trend aesthetics. Under her leadership, Beyond Yoga has experienced significant growth and solidified its reputation as a premier brand in the athleisure market.
Career Progression
Prior to her current role, Julia served as the Senior Director of Design (Maternity Leave Coverage) at Beyond Yoga, where she seamlessly managed the design team and provided strategic direction during a critical transition period. Before that, she held the position of Design Director - Sports Bras, Intimates & Swim at Athleta, where she spearheaded the development of industry-leading product lines that drove revenue growth and brand recognition.
Throughout her career, Julia has demonstrated a versatile skill set, transitioning fluidly between in-house design roles and independent consulting work. As a Creativity Midwife, Concept & Design Strategist, and Holistic Organizational Designer at P.E. // L.A. Consulting, she has honed her ability to identify and address complex challenges, fostering innovation and sustainable growth for a diverse range of clients.
Academic Background
Julia holds a Bachelor of Fine Arts in Graphic Design from the University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA), where she graduated with distinction.
Areas of Expertise
- Product design and development
- Technical design and fit optimization
- Strategic line planning and assortment management
- Holistic organizational design and process improvement
- Brand strategy and creative direction
- Cross-functional collaboration and team leadership
Professional Impact
Throughout her career, Julia has spearheaded the development of highly successful product lines that have driven significant revenue growth and cemented her clients' positions as industry leaders. Her innovative designs, combined with her technical expertise and strategic vision, have consistently delivered tangible results and earned her a reputation as a trusted partner and respected authority in the fashion and sportswear industry.
Conclusion
With her unwavering commitment to excellence, Julia Handleman is poised to continue making a profound impact in her current role at Beyond Yoga and beyond. Her exceptional design skills, strategic acumen, and collaborative leadership style make her a valuable asset to any organization seeking to elevate its product offerings and drive sustainable growth.
