Kwame Phillips-Solomon

Lead design and development of gear trims, ensuring PFAS-free transition andsustainability.
•
Evaluated trim candidates for functionality, aesthetic, sustainability, and cost. •
Collaborated with suppliers on trim development execution, feedback, and sampleaccuracy.
•
Researched and initiated new strategic partnerships for innovative product development. •
Communicated sample changes, test results, and requirements to trim sources. •
Pioneered the use of bio-based materials in gear trims, significantly enhancing productsustainability and reducing carbon footprint.
•
Expert in Product Lifecycle Management (PLM) systems and member of new PLM evaluation team 2023

The Companion Group sells a variety of grilling, smoking and baking accessories throughretail partners and online.
•
Led design of 100+ products for 20+ brands, managing client communication and teamoperations.
•
Supervised design team, ensuring timely project completion and quality control. •
Supported trade show planning and execution, including booth setup for major industryevents.
•
Led the design team in bringing 100+ unique grilling, smoking, and baking products tomarket, ensuring clientneeds were met and production milestones achieved.
•
Served as the primary interface between private label clients and in-house design team,translating clientneeds into viable product solutions.
•
Managed day-to-day operations of the design team, assigning projects to junior designers and overseeing the Product Design Lab, Prototyping, and Testing.
•
Inventor on 17 Patents

Led end-to-end design projects, from concept to mass production, ensuring timely delivery and quality.
Developed engineering drawings and prototypes, enhancing product functionality andmanufacturability.
•
Adapted quickly to client feedback and manufacturing constraints, maintaining projectmomentum.
•
Collaborated with cross-functional teams to align design objectives with business goals. •
Consistently delivered projects within tight deadlines, contributing to overall companysuccess.
•
Created proof-of-concept and design development prototypes using 3D Printers, 3 axis CNC, traditional fabrication and scale modeling techniques