Michael Kors is looking to fill the Director of Product Development role for their footwear division to ensure the successful execution of seasonal assortments aligned with brand strategy, cost targets, and market calendars, ultimately delivering high-quality, trend-right products that elevate the customer experience.
Requirements
- Strong knowledge of footwear construction, materials, costing, and manufacturing processes.
- Experience working with international vendors and factories.
- Proven ability to manage multiple categories and product calendars simultaneously.
- Deep understanding of the luxury or contemporary fashion market, preferably with experience in a comparable footwear brand.
- Strong proficiency in PLM systems, data management, Excel, Adobe Illustrator, 3D knowledge+.
Responsibilities
- Drive the footwear product development strategy from concept through to production.
- Lead and manage the product development team, ensuring timelines, quality standards, and cost targets are met.
- Collaborate with Design and Merchandising to translate creative vision into executable, commercially viable product.
- Partner with materials and overseas partners to identify and develop components, trims, and manufacturing solutions that support design intent and financial goals.
- Ensure adherence to the seasonal calendar, overseeing proto sampling, line reviews, and fit sessions.
- Resolve product costing issues with vendors, design and PD to ensure margin targets are achieved without compromising quality or brand integrity.
- Analyze product performance, sales feedback, and market trends to inform future development decisions.
Other
- 8+ years of progressive product development experience in the footwear industry, with at least 3 years in a leadership role.
- Excellent organizational, communication skills, and leadership.
- Willingness to travel overseas 2-4 times per year.
- The ability to think strategically, drive results and build a high-performance organization.
- Proven ability to be strategic and tactical in a demanding, fast-paced environment.
