Footwear Product Developer
At Azalea Wang, we move fast, think big, and work collaboratively. Everyone has a voice here, ideas are encouraged, and self-starters thrive. We’re a tight-knit, high-energy team that shows up every day ready to push product forward together.
The Role: Footwear Product Developer
We’re looking for a Footwear Product Developer who lives at the intersection of design, development, and execution. This role is critical to bringing bold Azalea Wang footwear and accessories from concept to line sample, on time and on margin. You’ll partner closely with Design, Product, Buyers/Sales, and external manufacturing partners to ensure product is executed with speed, accuracy, and quality in a true fast-fashion environment.
Key Responsibilities
Partner with the Product Assistant to manage and maintain the footwear, outerwear, and accessories material library, organized for self-service across product and cross-functional teams.
Collaborate with Design at concept stage to identify and source new materials and constructions.
Manage the full product lifecycle from concept submission through final line sample delivery, following critical path deadlines and communicating closely with Design, Sales, and cross-functional partners.
Create and submit detailed, accurate tech packs to external manufacturing partners to ensure clear execution aligned with design intent.
Own seasonal assortment tools by vendors across all product categories.
Manage all design and development deliverables, ensuring internal deadlines are met to support on-time external execution.
Assist the Merchandising Manager with product and material cost negotiations to achieve target LDP margins.
Own the fit and development process, partnering with Product to identify and recommend improvements in aesthetics, fit, and quality.
Run fit sessions with the Product team, taking detailed notes and photos and clearly communicating required changes to vendors.
Identify second proto needs and required wear testing for high-risk styles and new constructions, ensuring clear communication with factories.
Partner with Design to own and maintain accurate, up-to-date linesheets.
Ensure a clean and thorough handoff of all pending development to the Production team upon PO placement to streamline communication by function.
Proactively identify and solve development bottlenecks, material issues, and costing challenges.
Support system and data management, including PLM updates and ad hoc reporting as needed.
Qualifications & Experience
3–5 years of experience in footwear product development.
Deep understanding of footwear construction, materials, components, and manufacturing processes.
Familiarity with footwear and accessory materials and material performance standards.
Strong project management and exceptional organizational skills in a fast-paced environment.
Highly detail-oriented with a proven ability to meet tight deadlines and cost targets.
Excellent communication, negotiation, and problem-solving skills, both internally and with external partners.
Strong interpersonal skills with the ability to communicate clearly across broader teams.
Experience working in PLM systems (Centric preferred).
Proficiency in Adobe Suite and Google Suite.
Self-starter mentality with a collaborative, team-first attitude.
Why You’ll Love It Here
Fast-paced, entrepreneurial environment where ideas move quickly into product.
Collaborative culture where everyone’s voice matters.
High visibility role with real ownership and impact.
Opportunity to build bold, fashion-forward footwear at scale.
If you thrive in a high-energy environment, love problem-solving, and are passionate about footwear development, Azalea Wang at AKIRA is the place to hustle, grow, and make your mark.
Benefits and Perks:
We offer competitive benefits for full-time employees, including Medical, Dental, Vision, Pet Insurance, Life, LTD, FSA/HSA/Dependent Care FSA, Flex Transit (CTA), 401(k), and a generous employee discount. We’re committed to internal growth, providing meaningful development and career advancement opportunities.
Job Type: Full-Time
We are committed to fair and transparent compensation practices. Compensation for this position will be determined based on experience, qualifications, and other job-related factors. Additional compensation and benefits may also apply and will be discussed during the hiring process.
We may utilize AI-assisted and automated tools as part of the recruiting and hiring process. All employment decisions are made in compliance with applicable laws and without discrimination.
AKIRA first opened in 2002 as a single women’s clothing boutique in the trendy Bucktown/Wicker Park neighborhood of Chicago and is owned by Eric Hsueh, Erikka Wang, Sarah Hughes, Gordon Liao and Mark Ricard. Over the years, AKIRA has expanded to over 40 stores, a thriving eCommerce website, and an expanding wholesale business. AKIRA now has stores in over 12 states with more on the way and offers a full line of women’s clothing, footwear, and accessories.
At AKIRA, we believe in breaking down the barriers of the traditional retail experience and embracing the individuality of both our team and our clients. We’re on the lookout for extraordinary individuals who thrive on creativity, innovation, and pushing the boundaries of what's possible.
Join our team and become part of a culture that values diversity, fosters personal growth, and encourages out-of-the-box thinking.
We know that true success lies in the hands of passionate individuals who take risks, challenge conventional norms, and provide unforgettable experiences for our clients. With our unique product, we strive to be at the forefront of the fashion industry, setting new trends and redefining what it means to be fashionable.
But it's not just about the product. We are committed to creating a supportive and inclusive environment where our employees can thrive and be themselves, always. We believe that by empowering our team members, we can foster a sense of ownership and pride, ensuring that everyone has the opportunity to make a significant impact on our brand's journey. If you’re ready to launch a rewarding career that combines your love for fashion and your entrepreneurial spirit, you’ve come to the right place.
