Converse-Senior Footwear Developer

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Description:
SPECIFIC: Under the direction of the Development director and Manager(s) develop innovative footwear (constructions, graphics treatments, and material applications) related to Converse's product creation teams seasonal product initiatives.  Work cross-functional with in the franchise teams to create a product line from concept to reality, solve problems and elevate product.  Partner with Development leadership, Marketing and Design counterparts to deliver industry leading Converse product and stories.   CORE: To manage seasonal development of all new category product and meet pre-established timelines for completion. Product must be developed to specifications and guidelines set forth by the team (development, design, and product marketing) while also meeting corporate cost guidelines as established by Product Creation team goals. Work with CTS to deliver distinct good, better, best and premium product construction options. Projects must be developed to meet all durability and fit standards established by the fit/wear test specialists, as well as our highest level of craftsmanship. In this role you are a creative contributor to the product creation process, exploring new constructions, treatments and exploring leading development techniques.     DEVELOPMENT PLANNING Plan and organize resources to achieve project goals; influence and lead extended Product Creation Team and other key functional groups and entities as appropriate and successfully contribute to and apply understanding of advanced RD&D concepts, seasonal themes and consumer requirements to our in-line product process and offering.  Manage category project information and ensure its accuracy; and initiate and lead meetings with relevant product creation team members during all phases of the development process.  Drive the decision-making process that leads to on-time product confirmation and sample delivery by consistently reviewing and evaluating project status with product creation team; plan and drive development according to critical dates and performance/profitability goals; anticipate potential challenges and plans accordingly to deliver proven and tested product; and ensure manufacturability of product concepts for all projects.   DEVELOPMENT EXECUTION Provide category project and process management within Product Creation team at a high level of proficiency. Responsible for converting project briefs, design renderings, and models  into footwear samples that meet the needs of category team, consumer and can be successfully commercialized.  As a Product Creation team member must demonstrate expert consumer awareness and engage appropriately in all phases of the product creation process to ensure all projects are completed on time, can be produced, represents design intent, achieves performance criteria, hit target costing and sustainability goals.  Works with all functions to recommend, appropriate materials, components and construction options to interrupt key product features.  Partner with fit/wear test specialists to establish fit, function, and durability criteria for each model.  Interface with RD&D Team on integrating new technologies into inline product.  Responsible for finalizing seasonal product offering from all perspectives and handing off to overseas commercialization department for production.   COMMUNICATION Utilize footwear knowledge and tools to achieve project objectives at the highest, most efficient level. Build and maintain clear communication channels, both written and verbal, with Asia development staff to ensure that all pertinent details of each project are clearly understood. Effectively select and use the most appropriate communication tools to successfully drive and manage the product creation process from initial concept through to commercialization and production; communicate project status and reports with Category Leadership and drive and manage sampling and prototyping across geographies. Oversee accurate completion of all projects while adhering to strict corporate timelines. Work directly with design to elevate product craftsmanship, explore construction options, and address cost concerns during the design concept phase.  Partner with finance and overseas costing centers to communicate corporate cost goals throughout the product creation process.  Provide appropriate communication on CBD information to educate design, marketing and others team members, while maintaining confidential information.   CONSUMER KNOWLEDGE Actively learns and maintains connections to Converse category consumer to improve product performance, appearance and success. Travel with Product Creation team to researches industry influencers to develop an expert knowledge in regards to consumer, design, trends, production techniques and new technologies. Become the eyes of the consumer and contribute to our seasonal product briefing process.    SKILL DEVELOPMENT Continuously advance product, process and development skills reflective of a seasoned development professional.  Stay abreast of industry and technology developments within the product development profession.  Share methods with staff and mentor others to evolve skill sets.  Proactively works with Management to advance and build a personal portfolio of development skills, experiences, and product and process knowledge. Outside of assigned project load, provides development support for Development team as needed. 

Apply by eMail:do_not_reply@invalidemail.com

Job Created: Tue Sep 29 2009 06:13:10 AM
Last Modified: Fri Nov 20 2009 05:54:09 AM