Senior Product Development Manager

• Your initial focus will include seasonal project development, with ability to analyze lasts, read and revise technical mold drawings and blue prints per industry standards
• Under the direction of the Development Director, you’ll develop samples through product specifications, from concept briefs to product confirmation for assigned models
• Leads upper pattern development through confirmation of sample size with respect to manufacturability, fit, function, costing, and aesthetics
• Be an expert resource during development to identify and alleviate potential manufacturing, efficiency, or costing concerns on key models
• Follow established timelines with specific target dates to ensure samples are delivered to schedule. Provide weekly progress reports to Development Director
• Maintain clear and effective communication to the UK based Design and Merchandizing staff; Work to avoid potential product delays and quickly resolving issues that occur
• Leads Vietnam mold development and chemical compound consistency, from initial drawings through confirmation of sample size with respect to manufacturability, fit, function, costing, and aesthetics
• Develop and manage tooling blue prints and other tech drawings for accuracy and function. Also review and revise rapid prototype parts and wood models for accuracy and function
• Drives the product integrity through extensive fit and wear testing programs and material testing
• Advise Design and Merchandising groups identify materials, components and construction options for each project.
• Approves fit and wear testing throughout the development and fit approval process
• Manages costing objectives as outlined by the costing team and works with design to achieve costing goals. This entails supplying the necessary information needed for pre-costing exercises during review of product briefs, through tech package development and final pricing
• Actively works with suppliers on new materials, components, and procedures to be made available in overseas factories
• Maintain detailed written and digital project specs including color drawings, materials, blueprints

• Knowledge of EVA in manufacturing
• A background within performance/athleisure/sports footwear is preferable
• Good knowledge of pattern making
• Knowledge of lasts and the last making process – you’ll be able to measure and assess the features of a last and be able to contribute to discussions regarding last revisions for improved fit
• Significant footwear and shoemaking experience – constructions, materials, cost components, etc.
• Full understanding of product costing process
• Challenge and continuously seek improvement – e.g. in design, in shoe technology
• Instinctive recognition of good and bad aesthetic appeal of a prototype shoe to its target consumer; particularly last shape and material
• Tenacity to make sure that new designs are 100% right
• Ability to work effectively with people from different countries
• Demonstrated ability to conceive/create new thinking and ideas pertaining to the product and process
• Ability to create consensus and work cooperatively with a team, excellent communication skills
• Ability to travel when required during the development season

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