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For Companies At a Glance
- Tasks: Manage the entire product development process for stylish footwear and accessories.
- Company: Join a renowned independent fashion brand with over 40 retail locations in the UK and Ireland.
- Benefits: Enjoy a hybrid work model and be part of an exciting transformation phase.
- Why this job: Work on innovative designs and elevate craftsmanship in a dynamic creative team.
- Qualifications: 5-8 years in premium footwear development and strong technical expertise required.
- Other info: Collaborate with European factories and contribute to international growth.
The predicted salary is between 28800 - 48000 £ per year.
We are working with an established, independent fashion footwear and accessories company seeking a full-time hybrid freelance Product Developer to support across both casual and formal footwear (men’s and women’s) and accessories. With over 40 retail locations across the UK and Ireland and a rich heritage, the business is entering an exciting phase of transformation and international growth.
As part of a newly restructured creative and product team based in Central London, this role offers the chance to work on a dynamic seasonal collection with a focus on craftsmanship, innovation, and quality.
The Role
Reporting to the Product Director, the Product Developer will manage the end-to-end development process—from concept through to sampling, fit, costing, and production handover. You’ll work closely with designers, technicians, and European factories (Italy, Spain, Portugal) to ensure products meet brand standards, customer expectations, and commercial goals.
Key Responsibilities
- Oversee the full product development lifecycle for both casual and formal footwear and accessories
- Translate design concepts into technically sound prototypes and samples
- Maintain technical specs, BOMs, and costing accuracy
- Liaise with factories to resolve issues, monitor fit and quality, and ensure timely delivery
- Support fit sessions, implement design/technical updates, and track development timelines
- Identify innovative techniques and materials to elevate quality and craftsmanship
- Work closely with suppliers to optimise costs while maintaining premium standards
Requirements
- ~5–8 years’ experience in premium or luxury footwear and accessories development
- ~ Strong technical expertise across both casual and formal footwear construction
- ~ Proven experience working with European factories (Italy, Spain, Portugal)
- ~ Excellent communication and supplier management skills
- ~ Highly detail-oriented with strong problem-solving ability
- ~ Based in London with flexibility to work on a hybrid basis
Junior Footwear Technologist employer: Create Recruitment Specialists Ltd
Contact Detail:
Create Recruitment Specialists Ltd Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Junior Footwear Technologist
✨Tip Number 1
Network with professionals in the footwear industry, especially those who have experience with European factories. Attend industry events or join online forums to connect with potential colleagues and mentors who can provide insights into the role.
✨Tip Number 2
Familiarise yourself with the latest trends in footwear technology and materials. Being knowledgeable about innovative techniques can set you apart during interviews and show your passion for the industry.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare to discuss specific examples of your past work in product development, particularly any experiences that involved collaboration with designers and factories. This will demonstrate your hands-on expertise and problem-solving skills.
✨Tip Number 4
Research the company’s brand values and recent collections. Tailoring your conversation to align with their focus on craftsmanship and innovation will show that you are genuinely interested in contributing to their vision.
We think you need these skills to ace Junior Footwear Technologist
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV highlights relevant experience in footwear and accessories development. Emphasise any work you've done with European factories and your technical expertise in both casual and formal footwear.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: In your cover letter, express your passion for footwear design and development. Mention specific projects or experiences that demonstrate your problem-solving skills and attention to detail, as these are crucial for the role.
Showcase Your Technical Skills: Include a section in your application that outlines your technical skills related to product development, such as knowledge of BOMs, costing accuracy, and prototype creation. This will help you stand out as a candidate.
Highlight Communication Skills: Since the role involves liaising with designers and factories, make sure to mention any relevant experience that showcases your communication and supplier management skills. This could include examples of successful collaborations or problem resolutions.
How to prepare for a job interview at Create Recruitment Specialists Ltd
✨Showcase Your Technical Knowledge
As a Junior Footwear Technologist, it's crucial to demonstrate your understanding of footwear construction and materials. Be prepared to discuss specific techniques you've used in past projects and how they relate to the role.
✨Highlight Your Experience with European Factories
Since the company works closely with factories in Italy, Spain, and Portugal, share any relevant experiences you have with these suppliers. Discuss how you've managed relationships and resolved issues in previous roles.
✨Prepare for Problem-Solving Scenarios
Expect questions that assess your problem-solving skills. Think of examples where you've had to troubleshoot fit or quality issues and how you successfully navigated those challenges.
✨Emphasise Your Attention to Detail
Given the importance of maintaining technical specs and costing accuracy, be ready to provide examples that showcase your detail-oriented approach. This could include how you've tracked development timelines or ensured quality standards in past projects.
