Job Description

WHO YOU ARE:

We are currently looking for a Footwear Product Developer to join our Footwear/Bags/Wallets team. Reporting to the Senior Manager, Footwear/Handbags and working closely with the team, you will be responsible for:

• Research latest trends, street style, and analyze runway shows, translating them to support the brand vision (WGSN, social media, competitors, etc.).
• Bring designs through the development stage to production ready products meeting design, fit, quality requirements and align with brand direction.
• Negotiate and review prices with manager to ensure FOB is reasonable vs design vs retail/vs other suppliers offers and meet margin targets.
• Communicate with suppliers, including follow-up on sample updates, preparing and sending out technical packages to vendors. Includes updating data systems and internal and external customers/suppliers as product changes in the development cycle.
• Review samples for accuracy of execution, fit, workmanship and function. Make tech pack updates, pattern adjustments, etc. to resolve any design/quality issues that arise during development and communicate changes to the factories for proper execution.
• Review issues with department manager and factories to evaluate and clarify issues.
• Track development process, managing all products to adhere to timelines & action calendar deadlines.
• Create product architecture and determine a development plan incorporating best sellers, keeps, updates and trends.
• Determine material standards.
• Analyze weekly sales results to ascertain if actions are required (ex: updates, repeats, fit issues, etc.). Communicate findings in weekly meetings to further enhance the collections.
• Conduct & present biweekly market competition analysis, monitor collections, quality and price points.
• Work with marketing for product alignment.
• Other duties as required

WHAT YOU’LL NEED:

• Completion of post-secondary education, with a degree/diploma in Graphic Design.
• Minimum of five (5) years of experience in a related role.
• Computer proficiency (Mac and PC format), with knowledge of Adobe Illustrator CS+, Adobe Photoshop CS+, Acrobat 6.
• Ability to font and image source.
• Ability to crop and make color corrections to images.
• Ability to work effectively in a high activity environment.
• Strong communication skills.
• Excellent organizational skills with a keen ability to multi-task.
• Willingness to take on new challenges.
• Positive, upbeat energy with ability to create fun working environment is a must.

GROW WITH US!

We’re pretty proud to say that everything we do starts with our people – whether it’s in-store or at the head office. From sales associates and store leadership; dedicated in-house apparel and design teams; marketing, brand, and digital experts; stylists, photographers, and graphic designers; all the way to store concept and operations. We do it all. Ardene is truly a creative hub that is second to none.

Be part of a fun, dynamic and energetic team! Join our team and begin your career at one of North America’s top retail chains!