Job Purpose:

To lead and manage the footwear product development process from concept to commercialization, ensuring timely sample development, technical feasibility, cost optimization, quality compliance, and customer satisfaction.

Key Responsibilities:

Product Development & Project Management

Lead the end-to-end footwear development process from design concept to production readiness.
Coordinate with Merchandising, Design, Technical, Commercial, Production, and Quality teams to ensure successful development.
Ensure timely submission of all development samples according to customer timelines.
Monitor development schedules and take corrective actions to avoid delays.

Technical Development

Review customer tech packs, specifications, and development requirements.
Evaluate construction, materials, molds, tooling, and manufacturing feasibility.
Approve technical specifications before sample production.
Resolve technical issues related to fitting, construction, grading, and production feasibility.

Sample Room Management

Supervise sample room activities and ensure efficient utilization of manpower and resources.
Monitor sample quality and ensure first-time-right sample submissions.
Drive continuous improvement in sample making processes.

Costing & Commercial Support

Work closely with merchandising and costing teams to achieve target FOB prices.
Identify opportunities for material and process optimization without compromising quality.

Customer & Vendor Coordination

Participate in customer meetings, development reviews, and technical discussions.
Coordinate with suppliers regarding material sourcing, mold development, tooling, and technical support.

Team Leadership

Lead, coach, and develop Product Development Engineers, Assistant Managers, and sample technicians.
Conduct performance reviews and identify training needs.

Process Improvement

Key Performance Indicators (KPIs)