JOB DETAILS

JOB DETAIL

1. Product Development Oversight:
- Lead the development process for new footwear lines, from concept to prototype to final product.
- Work closely with designers, engineers, and production teams to ensure designs are feasible, functional, and aligned with brand standards.
- Oversee the creation of technical specifications, samples, and prototypes.
- Ensure that all footwear is developed with a focus on quality, performance, and cost-efficiency.

2. Team Leadership and Collaboration:
- Manage and guide the footwear development team, fostering a collaborative and creative environment.
- Coordinate with design, production, and sourcing teams to ensure project timelines are met.
- Provide mentorship and training to junior staff and development team members.

3. Supplier and Vendor Management:
- Work closely with suppliers and manufacturers to source materials, ensure production capabilities, and negotiate prices.
- Monitor the quality control processes of suppliers and make adjustments as needed to meet company standards.
- Develop and maintain strong relationships with key suppliers and partners.

4. Timeline and Project Management:
- Develop and manage project timelines to ensure footwear products are delivered on schedule.
- Track the progress of footwear development and troubleshoot any issues that arise during the process.
- Ensure that any revisions or updates to designs are communicated clearly and are efficiently implemented.

5. Quality Assurance and Testing:
- Ensure that all footwear products meet company quality standards and comply with industry regulations.
- Coordinate testing of prototypes, including wear tests, durability tests, and fit assessments.
- Implement feedback from testing phases to improve the final product.

6. Cost Control:
- Develop and manage budgets for footwear development projects, ensuring that costs are controlled without compromising quality.
- Work with the finance team to monitor and track project costs.

7. Market Research and Trend Analysis:
- Stay updated on the latest footwear trends, technologies, and consumer preferences.
- Conduct market research to identify opportunities for innovation in design, materials, and functionality.

8. Cross-functional Communication:
- Collaborate with marketing, sales, and retail teams to ensure footwear designs align with market demand and branding strategies.
- Provide input on product launches and go-to-market strategies to ensure successful product introductions.

9. Problem-Solving and Innovation:
- Solve any issues that arise during the development and production phases of footwear development.
- Drive innovation within the footwear category, exploring new materials, production techniques, and design approaches

REQUIRED WORK EXPERIENCE

- Bachelor's degree in Product Development, Industrial Design, Fashion Design, or related field (preferred).
- 5+ years of experience in footwear development or a related field.
- Proven experience managing product development teams and cross-functional collaboration.
- Experience working with international suppliers and manufacturers.
- Strong project management and organizational skills.
- Knowledge of footwear design software (e.g., CAD, Adobe Illustrator).
- Ability to balance creativity with practicality.
- Strong communication and negotiation skills.
- A strong eye for detail and passion for footwear design.
- Ability to work under pressure and meet deadlines.
- Ability to lead a team while fostering a collaborative atmosphere.
- Typically in an office environment with occasional visits to manufacturers or trade shows.
- Some travel may be required for supplier meetings or product testing.