Sr. Footwear Developer

Purpose:
To manage seasonal development of all new category product and meet pre-established timelines for completion. Product must be developed to specifications and guidelines set forth by the team (development, design, and product marketing) while also meeting corporate cost guidelines as established by Product Creation team goals. Work with CTS to deliver distinct good, better, best and premium product construction options. Projects must be developed to meet all durability and fit standards established by the fit/wear test specialists, as well as our highest level of craftsmanship. In this role you are a creative contributor to the product creation process, exploring new constructions, treatments and exploring leading development techniques.

Major Accountabilities:
-Plan and organize resources to achieve project goals; influence and lead extended Product Creation Team and other key functional groups and entities as appropriate and successfully contribute to and apply understanding of advanced RD&D concepts, seasonal themes and consumer requirements to our in-line product process and offering. Manage category project information and ensure its accuracy; and initiate and lead meetings with relevant product creation team members during all phases of the development process. Drive the decision-making process that leads to on-time product confirmation and sample delivery by consistently reviewing and evaluating project status with product creation team; plan and drive development according to critical dates and performance/profitability goals; anticipate potential challenges and plans accordingly to deliver proven and tested product; and ensure manufacturability of product concepts for all projects.

-Provide category project and process management within Product Creation team at a high level of proficiency. Responsible for converting project briefs, design renderings, and models into footwear samples that meet the needs of category team, consumer and can be successfully commercialized. As a Product Creation team member must demonstrate expert consumer awareness and engage appropriately in all phases of the product creation process to ensure all projects are completed on time, can be produced, represents design intent, achieves performance criteria, hit target costing and sustainability goals. Works with all functions to recommend, appropriate materials, components and construction options to interrupt key product features. Partner with fit/wear test specialists to establish fit, function, and durability criteria for each model. Interface with RD&D Team on integrating new technologies into inline product. Responsible for finalizing seasonal product offering from all perspectives and handing off to overseas commercialization department for production.

-Utilize footwear knowledge and tools to achieve project objectives at the highest, most efficient level. Build and maintain clear communication channels, both written and verbal, with Asia development staff to ensure that all pertinent details of each project are clearly understood. Effectively select and use the most appropriate communication tools to successfully drive and manage the product creation process from initial concept through to commercialization and production; communicate project status and reports with Category Leadership and drive and manage sampling and prototyping across geographies. Oversee accurate completion of all projects while adhering to strict corporate timelines. Work directly with design to elevate product craftsmanship, explore construction options, and address cost concerns during the design concept phase. Partner with finance and overseas costing centers to communicate corporate cost goals throughout the product creation process. Provide appropriate communication on CBD information to educate design, marketing and others team members, while maintaining confidential information.

-Actively learns and maintains connections to Converse category consumer to improve product performance, appearance and success. Travel with Product Creation team to researches industry influencers to develop an expert knowledge in regards to consumer, design, trends, production techniques and new technologies. Become the eyes of the consumer and contribute to our seasonal product briefing process.

-Continuously advance product, process and development skills reflective of a seasoned development professional. Stay abreast of industry and technology developments within the product development profession. Share methods with staff and mentor others to evolve skill sets. Proactively works with Management to advance and build a personal portfolio of development skills, experiences, and product and process knowledge. Outside of assigned project load, provides development support for Development team as needed.

4 Year Degree
- 6-10 years experience in performance footwear product development. Footwear production and commercialization experience also considered. Broad knowledge of various types of footwear and constructions is preferred.
- Detail oriented with strong working knowledge of performance footwear development, commercialization, and manufacturing.
- Strong written and verbal communication skills. Must be able to communicate clearly and concisely with China office development personnel on a daily basis via e mail and phone.
- Self motivated with strong decision making capabilities. Individual must also be team oriented and willing to step in where needed. Time management is critical to success.
As a senior level developer, managing and/or mentoring younger developers will be required.
-Individual must be proficient on a PC with knowledge of Excel, Power Point, Microsoft Office, Outlook, Illustrator, and Photoshop.
-Overseas travel is required on a seasonal basis. 3-4 trips to China office each year is normal with an occasional extra trip in certain situations. Some domestic travel is also required for trend trips and competitive shopping.
Irregular working hours should be expected during peak periods when deadlines are closing in.
-Must have the ability to read and interpret 2D technical drawings as well as 3D models.
-Should be familiar with materials and vendors.
-Knowledge of physical testing methods and requirements.
-Knowledge of mold making.
-Experience working with Chinese and Taiwanese people and understanding their culture.