SENIOR FOOTWEAR PRODUCT DEVELOPER [AQ-12763]

About the Role

Join a globally recognized leader in athletic footwear as a seasoned product development expert. This role offers the opportunity to drive the full development lifecycle of premium footwear, transforming initial designs and ambitious briefs into high-performance samples. Your work will directly influence product quality, performance, and sustainability, shaping the future of athletic innovation.

Responsibilities

• Manage assigned product development projects from initial concept through commercialization readiness, ensuring timely delivery and adherence to critical dates.
• Translate design concepts and project briefs into high-quality 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, 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 external manufacturing 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.
• Strong ability to prioritize and manage multiple work streams and competing priorities in a dynamic environment.
• 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 (Nice-to-Have)

• 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.
• 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

Eligible talent through Aquent Talent gain access to amazing benefits, including:

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

About the Company

This role is with a global leader in athletic footwear, apparel, and equipment, known for innovation, performance, and marketing. The company partners with top athletes and teams, emphasizing sustainability and digital advancements to enhance the sports experience.