Head of Product - Footwear

Position Overview:

The Head of Product will serve as the product and consumer expert and functional leader for the Product Team. You will be responsible for crafting and leading the long-range product plan and seasonal direction.

Key Responsibilities:

Product Strategy and Vision:

Develop and implement a comprehensive product strategy that aligns with the brand vision and business goals.

Identify market trends, consumer needs, and competitive landscape to guide product innovation and development.

Leverage consumer and category data, consumer insights, trend, and brand strategies to build the product line.

Product Development:

Lead the product development process from concept to launch, ensuring timely delivery of products that meet quality and cost targets.

Collaborate with design, engineering, and manufacturing teams to create innovative and functional footwear and accessories.

Supervise the Product Creation process from Brief stage and Design through final prototyping and Production.

Provide leadership and problem-solving support for Design tech packages, materials, and cost concerns.

Cross-Functional Leadership:

Work closely with marketing, sales, and operations teams to ensure product alignment with brand strategy, market needs, and sales goals.

Ensure alignment with Go to Market process through partnership with Design, Development, Marketing, Sales, and Omni-channel counterparts.

Serve as a leading contributor/presenter at major milestones, sales launches, and other presentation needs.

Quality and Performance:

Establish and maintain high standards for product quality, performance, and sustainability.

Oversee testing and validation processes to ensure product durability, comfort, and compliance with industry standards.

Provide guidance to ensure timely generation of seasonal Bill of Materials (BOM).

Vendor and Supplier Management:

Develop and maintain strong relationships with key suppliers and manufacturers.

Negotiate contracts and manage vendor performance to ensure timely delivery and cost-effectiveness.

Set seasonal development allocation and assist in sourcing decisions.

Financial Management:

Manage the product development budget, ensuring efficient use of resources and alignment with financial goals.

Analyze product profitability and make data-driven decisions to optimize product lines.

Team Management:

Directly manage all Product and Product Development team members.

Mentor and provide regular feedback to team members that foster skill development and performance improvement, including tough conversations.

Instill and reinforce the highest standards for collaboration and teamwork.

Develop, motivate, mentor, and retain top talent; engage the product creation team in ways that will facilitate the achievement of strategic objectives, as well as individual professional development plans.

Continually monitor team processes to ensure ongoing innovation and efficiency.

Organizational Relationships:

The Head of Product will serve as the expert for the Product Management function, reporting to the VP/GM, and partnering closely with the Design, Marketing, Development, Consumer Insights, Sales & Global Merchandisers, and the Omni Channel team.

Qualifications:

Bachelor’s degree in Product Design, Marketing, Business, or a related field. Advanced degree preferred.

Minimum of 12+ years of progressive experience in the footwear industry, with mastered expertise in building product specifications, material applications, and product constructions.

8+ years of management experience with a proven track record of successfully bringing innovative products to market.

Experience implementing and adhering to design KPI and ROI guidelines, including the ability to interpret detailed data such as global seasonal sell-in and sell-through information, consumer insights, market research, and trends analysis.

Strong understanding of the category competitive landscape and Omni Channel retail environment.

Strong presentation skills, with experience influencing and motivating varied audiences, including design teams and sales meetings.

$130,000 - $160,000 a year