Find a job 
Featured Companies 
Featured Universities 
For Companies At a Glance
- Tasks: Manage the entire product development process for stylish footwear and accessories.
- Company: Join a renowned fashion footwear brand with over 40 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 employer: Create Recruitment Specialists Ltd
Contact Detail:
Create Recruitment Specialists Ltd Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Footwear Product Developer
✨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 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 translated design concepts into prototypes and resolved issues with suppliers.
✨Tip Number 4
Showcase your communication skills by practising how you would liaise with designers and factories. Consider role-playing scenarios where you need to address fit issues or negotiate costs, as this will demonstrate your problem-solving abilities.
We think you need these skills to ace Footwear Product Developer
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV highlights relevant experience in footwear product development, especially in premium or luxury segments. Emphasise your technical expertise and any specific projects that align with the job description.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Write a cover letter that showcases your passion for footwear and accessories. Mention your experience with European factories and how you can contribute to the company's transformation and growth.
Highlight Key Skills: In your application, focus on key skills such as communication, supplier management, and problem-solving. Provide examples of how you've successfully managed the product development lifecycle in previous roles.
Showcase Innovation: Discuss any innovative techniques or materials you've worked with in the past. This will demonstrate your ability to elevate quality and craftsmanship, which is crucial for this role.
How to prepare for a job interview at Create Recruitment Specialists Ltd
✨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 ability to think on your feet.
✨Familiarise Yourself with European Factories
Since the role involves working closely with factories in Italy, Spain, and Portugal, it’s beneficial to research these regions' manufacturing practices. Mention any previous experiences you have with these factories and how you managed supplier relationships.
✨Emphasise Innovation and Craftsmanship
Be ready to talk about innovative techniques and materials you've used in past projects. Show your passion for craftsmanship and quality, and how you can contribute to elevating the brand's seasonal collections.
