Footwear Designer

Salary: £45,000 per annum

Hours: Monday – Friday 8:30 – 17:00 (37.5 hours)

Location: Stonehouse, GL10 3EZ (Hybrid – 1-2 days per week in the office)

At Gardiner Bros, we believe how we treat people matters. Starting as a small family run business in 1860, we have grown into a multi-million-pound partner to over 80 global brands, including Skechers, Crocs, Hush Puppies, Muck Boots along with our own brands Amblers Safety and Cotswold.

What will the Footwear Designer role entail?

• You will take ideas from initial concept through to approved samples, to create footwear that is relevant to consumers, aligned with brand direction and capable of driving growth.
• Working closely with our brand development managers, merchandisers, footwear technician and international factory partners, you'll have the opportunity to influence collections across the full design and development process.
• Creating concepts, CADs, colour palettes, product briefs and development packs.
• Translating trends, consumer insight and commercial requirements into compelling footwear ranges.
• Keeping up to date with footwear trends, competitors, materials and product innovation.
• Working with factories and suppliers to develop products and resolve design or development challenges.
• Reviewing samples and providing feedback on materials, construction, fit, functionality and overall product quality.
• Presenting seasonal trends, collections and product stories to internal teams, customers and key stakeholders.
• Attending product reviews, supplier meetings, trade shows and customer appointments when required.
• Collaborating with different departments across the business to deliver successful collections.

What are we looking for in a Footwear Designer?

• We are looking for someone who is creative, commercially minded and passionate about footwear, to join our buying and merchandising team and play a key role in creating and developing commercially successful footwear collections across our portfolio of brands, focusing on Hush Puppies, Base London, Frye and Sperry.
• Previous experience in footwear design or product development.
• Strong CAD, sketching and presentation skills.
• A good understanding of footwear construction, materials and manufacturing.
• Strong communication and presentation skills, with confidence presenting concepts and collections.
• Excellent organisation and attention to detail.
• A collaborative, flexible and hands on approach.

Why Join us?

• 25 Days annual leave entitlement.
• Enhanced maternity and paternity leave.
• Generous staff discounts on all brands we supply.
• Life Assurance.
• Company Pension.
• Local Gym Membership Discount.
• Free Mortgage advice £0 Broker Fee.
• Eyecare Vouchers.

We are committed to building a diverse and inclusive workplace where everyone feels valued and supported. We welcome applications from people of all backgrounds, experiences, and perspectives. If you need any adjustments during the recruitment process, please let us know—we are happy to help!