senior Product Development Manager

As Senior Product Development Manager, you'll manage the development of new footwear from initial concept through to sales samples to Production confirmation for assigned projects with leadership on technical aspects. You'll focus on delivering projects and related samples according to predetermined timelines. You'll apply the full scope of product development: Project management, Timeline management, Costing analysis, Fit and Wear testing, Commercializing to production, Material knowledge, and construction methods.
The Responsibilities:
- 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
The Person:
- 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