Job Purpose :
The Director, Footwear Development is responsible for the whole development process for this new category. With a focus on building out a concept to consumer critical path that delivers the best possible product at the right time at the right price.
This is a hands on role that will not just include building out the strategy, but also execution such as, but not limited to, pre-costing, engineering, last ownership, fit testing and relationships with material vendors
This role requires high level of communication with the Product team as well as Cross-Departmental collaboration coupled with strong project management and time management skills.
Key Responsibilities :
Footwear Critical Path creation, ownership and execution
Footwear Development strategy
Develop styles on time with accuracy that fall in line with product vision
Create and maintain accurate Bill of Materials (BOM) and Manuals to ensure accurately produced Finished Product / Goods
Partner with Product Engineering (PE), Product Integrity and Compliance (PIC) and Production (Vendors for offshore) to establish and validate construction and quality in execution of design intent and margin targets for assigned styles.
Support Product Integrity and Compliance partners in testing and validation of construction and materials as well as setting quality standards based on results.
Collaborate with Product Engineering (and Vendors for offshore) to ensure prototypes meet established fit intent, as well as established quality and construction standards
Lead Fittings and Style Reviews with Product Team partners to ensure style details, fit and quality standards are clearly communicated and followed
Create, distribute and maintain style specification and comment packages. Communicate to internal partners and external offshore vendors
Pre-costing and engineering to hit margin targets
Supports Quality Assurance and PIC in solving Production concerns and issues as needed
Lead Prototype and Sales Sample reviews with Quality Assurance Team and Manufacturing.
For Offshore Development, partner with Design, Material Development and Sourcing to execute development of vendor provided raw materials
Experience, Education and Designations :
Must have 5-7 years of working experience in a Product Development position or similar with management experience a must
Product Development experience in footwear is a pre-requisite
Knowledge, Skills and Attributes :
Knowledge of PLM
Proficiency in Microsoft Office and Adobe Creative Suite, specifically Illustrator is required
Shoe Making qualifications & education
Knowledge of product construction required
Engineering background is preferable
Good verbal and written communication skills
Detail oriented and strong organization skills
Strong time management and multitasking skills
Demonstrate ability to take initiative to achieve departmental and corporate objectives
Ability to work as a team and maintain a high level of professionalism and discretion
Working Conditions :
Office and Manufacturing environment
Business travel Requirements 
