Assistant PD, Footwear & Accessories

Major Responsibilities

• Track and manage sample requests, shipments, and receipt logs across all vendors
• Manage WIP trackers and development calendars; flag delays or at-risk milestones proactively
• Update line guides & tech packs based on direction provided by the Associate Product Developer/Designer
• Support costing processes by maintaining and updating costing sheets and cost trackers
• Maintain accurate, up-to-date product data across PLM and other internal systems
• Organize and label fit samples, protos, and PP samples ahead of fit sessions
• Take notes during fit sessions and distribute technical comments to vendors under guidance
• Communicate with overseas vendors on shipment tracking, sample status, and documentation needs
• Cook up the approval routing of materials, trims, and color details between Design and vendors
• Serve as a day-to-day point of contact for logistics questions between Design, buying, and vendors
• Follow up on outstanding action items to keep development on calendar
• Support accessories tech pack maintenance and sample tracking as needed
• Aid in accessories line guide upkeep
• Organize and maintain trim and material libraries
• Prepare materials and documentation ahead of fit sessions and vendor meetings
• Support ad-hoc tasks and assignments as directed by management

Required Competencies

• Exceptional organizational skills and attention to detail
• Strong written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to interact across all levels
• Ability to track and manage a large SKU count across multiple brands and seasons simultaneously
• Comfort working with data and systems; strong Excel skills
• Deadline-focused with strong follow-through and problem-solving instincts
• Interest in footwear and product development, with eagerness to learn construction and materials
• Ability to thrive in a fast-paced environment with tight development calendars (5-month lead times)

Minimum Qualifications

• 1–2+ years of experience in product development, production, or a related support role
• Strong Excel skills and general computer proficiency; PLM experience a plus
• Experience or exposure to working with overseas vendors a plus, not required
• Degree in Product Development, Fashion Merchandising, Business, or related field preferred
• No design software proficiency required; familiarity with Adobe Illustrator/Photoshop a plus but not necessary

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience supporting footwear or accessories development
• Familiarity with costing sheets, WIP trackers, or similar development tools
• Experience with PLM or similar product management platforms
• Able to work well in a dynamic environment with minimal supervision