Our client is a well-established international brand with strong global presence, currently expanding its product capabilities across the region.
They are seeking a Footwear Developer to take ownership of the end-to-end product development lifecycle—bridging design, technical execution, and manufacturing to deliver commercially successful footwear collections.
This role is ideal for someone who combines technical expertise, product instinct, and strong factory management experience.
Key Responsibilities
Product Development
Lead the full development cycle from concept to production
Translate design concepts into technical specifications and construction details
Manage prototype development, revisions, and approvals
Ensure product meets standards for fit, comfort, quality, and performance
Factory & Vendor Management
Work closely with factories (Asia exposure preferred) to develop and finalize products
Communicate clear tech packs, materials, and construction requirements
Troubleshoot development challenges directly with manufacturing partners
Costing & Margin Control
Manage costing structures (FOB, materials, labor, tooling)
Optimize product engineering to meet target margins
Identify cost-saving opportunities without compromising quality
Materials & Components
Source and approve materials, trims, and components
Collaborate with suppliers to develop unique or proprietary elements
Ensure consistency and quality across all materials
Fit & Testing
Conduct fit sessions and wear testing
Ensure accurate grading across size ranges
Validate durability, comfort, and performance
Timeline Management
Own development timelines and ensure milestones are met
Align with design, merchandising, and production calendars
Proactively manage risks to ensure on-time delivery
Cross-Functional Collaboration
Partner with Design, Merchandising, Production, and Sales teams
Act as the technical expert in product discussions
Ensure alignment between design vision and commercial execution
Requirements
Minimum 5+ years of experience in footwear development
Strong knowledge of footwear construction, materials, and manufacturing processes
Proven experience working directly with factories and suppliers (Asia preferred)
Solid understanding of costing and margin structures
Ability to manage multiple projects in a fast-paced environment
Strong problem-solving and communication skills
Fluency in French and English is mandatory
What We’re Looking For
Strong product intuition and attention to detail
Ability to balance design intent with commercial viability
Highly organized with strong execution discipline
Proactive, solutions-driven mindset
Comfortable working across international teams and time zones