Matt Richmond

About Matt Richmond

With over 13 years at Symbol Audio as a founding member and Director of Product Development, I have contributed to building a category-defining luxury brand in the audio furniture space. By leveraging DTC growth strategies and consumer insights, we have driven innovation in product design and market positioning, solidifying the brand’s leadership in the industry. My work includes defining Symbol Audio’s business model, spearheading new product design & rollouts, and fostering partnerships that align with our vision. My passion lies in creating adaptable, customer-focused products that endure. By combining expertise in product development, project management, brand strategy, and design, I have helped shape a pipeline of innovative offerings that resonate with consumers. At the intersection of creativity and commerce, I aim to empower brands to thrive in dynamic markets.

Experience

1. Director of Product Development Founding Member Dtc Innovation

   Symbol

   May 2012 — Present · Nyack, NY, US

   As a founding member of Symbol Audio, I’ve spent 13 years immersed in the intersection of product innovation and brand storytelling, turning a vision into a category-defining business. I’m passionate about creating adaptable, customer-obsessed brands that stand the test of time.From defining Symbol Audio’s business model to leading product strategy, marketing, and partnerships, I’ve thrived in environments where agility meets ambition. My work spans:Brand & Category Strategy: Defined Symbol Audio’s brand identity and market positioning as a founding team member, establishing it as a leader in premium audio furniture. Innovation Pipeline: Led end-to-end product development, from ideation to launch, with a focus on quality and speed to market.Strategic Sourcing: Identified production resources in all categories building key relationships to produce case goods, audio components, upholstery and accessories.Go-To-Market Leadership: Partnered marketing and sales teams as well as outside consultants to launch products across DTC/e-commerce channels, driving customer acquisition.Cross-Functional Collaboration: Aligned product roadmap with consumer insights, manufacturing, and creative teams to ensure brand integrity.As the first employee, played a key role in shaping company culture, values, and operational processes, stepping in to move us forward in whatever capacity was needed at the time.

Education

• Academy of Art University

  NA, Industrial Design

  2005 — 2007

• Southern Illinois University, Carbondale

  BA, Industrial Design

  1998 — 2003

Skills

• Merchandising
• Cad
• Rendering
• Industrial Design
• Concept Development
• Retail
• Design Strategy
• Product Design
• Furniture
• Product Development