SENIOR FOOTWEAR PRODUCT DEVELOPER [AQ-11997]

Aquent, a leading talent solutions partner, is thrilled to connect you with an unparalleled opportunity at a globally recognized leader in the athletic footwear industry. This innovative company is at the forefront of creating groundbreaking products that empower athletes worldwide. Join a team where your expertise will directly contribute to shaping the future of performance footwear, making a tangible impact on product excellence and consumer experience.

About the role

We are seeking a dynamic and highly skilled individual to join a fast-paced product team, driving the full development lifecycle of premium footwear. In this pivotal role, you won’t just manage projects; you’ll be the architect transforming 2D designs and ambitious briefs into tangible, high-performance 3D samples. Your work will directly influence product quality, performance, and sustainability, ensuring that every new release meets the highest standards for athletes globally. This is your chance to lead complex initiatives, collaborate with diverse teams, and leave your footprint on the next generation of athletic innovation.

Responsibilities

• Manage assigned product development projects from initial concept through commercialization readiness, ensuring timely delivery and adherence to critical dates.
• Translate 2D design concepts and project briefs into high-quality 3D samples that align with consumer needs, business objectives, performance targets, cost efficiency, and sustainability goals.
• Drive cross-functional collaboration with engineering, product testing, materials, design, product management, sourcing, and operations teams to achieve project success.
• Ensure products meet design intent and performance goals, and are fully prepared for scalable manufacturing.
• Actively engage in all phases of the development process, applying cost-effective solutions and hands-on prototyping to explore and implement improvements.
• Interpret technical drawings, 3D digital files, and model views to guide product realization.
• Facilitate meetings, build consensus, and influence both internal and external partners to achieve project objectives.
• Serve as the critical point of contact, communicating clearly and effectively with overseas partners and internal stakeholders.

Requirements

• 5+ years of direct, hands-on experience in footwear product development.
• Proven project management skills, including a track record of creating comprehensive project plans and effectively holding teams accountable.
• Exceptional verbal and written communication skills, with the ability to clearly articulate goals, objectives, and complex technical information.
• Demonstrated understanding of footwear pattern engineering, tooling, and manufacturing processes.
• A strong ability to prioritize and manage multiple work streams and competing priorities in a dynamic environment.
• A self-starter mentality, coupled with a demonstrated willingness to continuously learn and grow.
• Ambitious, deadline-oriented, confident in influencing teammates, accountable, and a strong collaborator with the ability to build trust.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Product Development, Engineering, or a related field, or equivalent practical experience.
• Footwear development experience within a performance-focused brand.
• Proficiency in 3D CAD and model view reading abilities.
• A genuine connection to or passion for performance sports, including experience with wear testing or athlete engagement.
• Experience with footwear costing strategies and implementing cost reduction solutions.
• Basic knowledge of materials, test methods, and their properties.

Benefits

Aquent Talent connects the best talent in marketing, creative, and design with the world’s biggest brands. Eligible talent get access to amazing benefits like:

• Subsidized health, vision, and dental plans.
• Paid sick leave.
• Retirement plans with a match.
• Free online training through Aquent Gymnasium.