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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 collections that prioritise craftsmanship and quality in a 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 36000 - 60000 £ 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
Footwear Product Developer (London Area) employer: Placed
Contact Detail:
Placed Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Footwear Product Developer (London Area)
✨Tip Number 1
Network with professionals in the footwear industry, especially those who have experience working 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 design and production techniques. Being knowledgeable about innovative materials and craftsmanship will help you stand out during interviews and discussions with the hiring team.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare to discuss your previous experiences in managing the product development lifecycle. Be ready to share specific examples of how you've successfully overseen projects from concept to production, highlighting your problem-solving skills.
✨Tip Number 4
Research the company’s heritage and current collections thoroughly. Understanding their brand values and aesthetic will allow you to tailor your conversations and demonstrate your genuine interest in contributing to their exciting phase of transformation.
We think you need these skills to ace Footwear Product Developer (London Area)
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV highlights relevant experience in footwear product development, especially any work with European factories. Emphasise your technical expertise and any specific projects that showcase your skills in both casual and formal footwear.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: In your cover letter, express your passion for footwear and accessories. Mention your understanding of craftsmanship and innovation, and how your experience aligns with the company's goals. Be sure to address the specific responsibilities mentioned in the job description.
Showcase Your Technical Skills: Include examples of your technical skills in your application. Discuss your experience with maintaining technical specs, BOMs, and costing accuracy. If possible, provide metrics or outcomes from previous projects to demonstrate your impact.
Highlight Communication Abilities: Since the role requires excellent communication and supplier management skills, include examples of how you've successfully liaised with factories or teams in the past. This could be through problem-solving scenarios or successful project completions.
How to prepare for a job interview at Placed
✨Showcase Your Technical Expertise
Make sure to highlight your experience in premium or luxury footwear development. Be prepared to discuss specific projects where you translated design concepts into prototypes, and how you maintained technical specifications and costing accuracy.
✨Demonstrate Your Problem-Solving Skills
Prepare examples of challenges you've faced in the product development process, especially when liaising with factories. Discuss how you resolved issues related to fit, quality, or delivery timelines, showcasing your attention to detail and ability to think on your feet.
✨Familiarise Yourself with the Brand's Heritage
Research the company's history and values. Understanding their brand identity will help you align your answers with their vision during the interview, showing that you're not just a fit for the role but also for the company culture.
✨Prepare Questions About Innovation
Since the role focuses on craftsmanship and innovation, come prepared with questions about their current projects or future plans. This shows your genuine interest in contributing to their transformation and growth, and it can spark a meaningful conversation.
