At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead the product development process for stylish footwear and accessories from concept to production.
- Company: Join Russell & Bromley, a luxury fashion brand with a rich heritage and exciting growth plans.
- Benefits: Enjoy a hybrid work model, competitive salary, and opportunities for professional growth.
- Other info: Exciting opportunity to contribute to a family-owned brand with a commitment to craftsmanship.
- Why this job: Be part of a creative team shaping the future of luxury fashion in a vibrant environment.
- Qualifications: Experience in premium footwear development and strong technical knowledge required.
The predicted salary is between 36000 - 60000 £ per year.
Location: Head Office, Kingly St, London
Workplace Type: Hybrid (2 Days WFH)
Contract: Full Time
About the Company
Russell & Bromley is the destination luxury fashion footwear & accessories brand for the everyday. A leading force in British fashion with over 40 stores operating across the UK and Ireland. Combining European craftsmanship with a British glint in the eye, Russell & Bromley offers iconic style and on-trend design that empowers people to feel exceptional every day. Founded in Lewes in 1880, borne from a love story between Albion Russell’s daughter, Elizabeth, and George Bromley - today the business remains family-owned, operated, and proudly independent.
The Russell & Bromley business is entering an exciting period of growth with Vision 2030, an ambitious five-year roadmap to fuel our future success, under the leadership of CEO Andrew Bromley. Strategic actions include a commitment to brand and product transformation, continued growth of our UK & IRE retail footprint, and accelerated international expansion.
About the Role
We’re looking for an experienced and technically skilled Product Developer to join our Product Development team, specialising in casual footwear and accessories across both men’s and women’s collections. In this pivotal role, you will manage the end-to-end development process, from concept to sample handover, working closely with designers, technicians, and European factory partners to ensure every product aligns with our brand DNA, craftsmanship standards, and commercial goals. You will be the technical bridge between design and production, translating creative ideas into premium, well-constructed products that meet cost and fit targets.
Key Responsibilities
- Lead the full product development process from design handover to production-ready samples
- Partner with designers to refine sketches, constructions, and material usage without compromising design intent
- Own and maintain technical specs and Bills of Materials (BOMs) from development to production handoff
- Manage fit development and feedback processes with cross-functional input
- Source and manage supplier relationships across Italy, Spain, and Portugal
- Troubleshoot technical challenges to ensure feasibility, quality, and timely delivery
- Oversee costing, COGS tracking, and margin analysis in collaboration with the Product Director
- Introduce new materials, finishes, and techniques to elevate product execution
- Conduct regular factory visits to maintain production standards and timelines
- Support internal teams with accurate product documentation and technical expertise
About You
- Experience in premium or luxury footwear and accessories development, with a strong focus on casual styles (Men’s & Women’s)
- Deep technical knowledge of last-making, construction methods, and material applications for trainers and casual shoes
- Proven track record of working with European factories (Italy, Spain, Portugal)
- Experience managing costings, supplier negotiations, and production timelines
- Strong attention to detail with the ability to translate creative concepts into commercially viable product
- Excellent problem-solving skills and ability to work cross-functionally
- Confident communicator, highly organised, and collaborative in approach
- Willingness to travel for factory visits as needed
Note: This description reflects current, active role information. We regret that we will only be able to contact successful candidates within two weeks.
Product Developer - Footwear & Accessories in London employer: Russell & Bromley
Russell & Bromley is an exceptional employer, offering a dynamic work environment in the heart of Soho, London, where creativity and craftsmanship thrive. With a commitment to employee growth and a hybrid working model, team members enjoy a balance of collaboration and flexibility, alongside opportunities to contribute to exciting brand transformations as part of Vision 2030. Joining our family-owned business means being part of a rich heritage while shaping the future of luxury fashion footwear and accessories.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Product Developer - Footwear & Accessories in London
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to people in the footwear and accessories industry, especially those connected to Russell & Bromley. A friendly chat can open doors that a CV just can't.
✨Tip Number 2
Show off your passion! When you get that interview, make sure to express your love for luxury fashion and how you can contribute to their Vision 2030. Let them see your enthusiasm!
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare for those tricky questions! Brush up on your technical knowledge about footwear development and be ready to discuss your experience with European factories. Confidence is key!
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets noticed. Plus, it shows you’re serious about joining the Russell & Bromley family.
We think you need these skills to ace Product Developer - Footwear & Accessories in London
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Your Passion:When you're writing your application, let your enthusiasm for footwear and accessories shine through! We want to see how much you love the industry and what makes you tick. Share your personal experiences or projects that relate to the role.
Tailor Your CV:Make sure your CV is tailored specifically for this role. Highlight your experience in product development, especially in casual footwear and accessories. We’re looking for those key skills that match our needs, so don’t hold back!
Be Clear and Concise:Keep your application clear and to the point. We appreciate a well-structured application that gets straight to the heart of your qualifications and experiences. Avoid fluff and focus on what makes you the perfect fit for us.
Apply Through Our Website:Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way for us to receive your application and ensures it gets into the right hands. Plus, it shows you’re serious about joining our team at Russell & Bromley.
How to prepare for a job interview at Russell & Bromley
✨Know Your Product Inside Out
Before the interview, dive deep into Russell & Bromley's product lines, especially their casual footwear and accessories. Familiarise yourself with their craftsmanship standards and brand DNA. This will not only show your genuine interest but also help you discuss how your experience aligns with their vision.
✨Showcase Your Technical Skills
Be prepared to discuss your technical knowledge of last-making, construction methods, and material applications. Bring examples of past projects where you successfully managed the end-to-end development process. This will demonstrate your capability to bridge the gap between design and production.
✨Highlight Your Collaborative Spirit
Since the role involves working closely with designers and suppliers, share specific examples of how you've collaborated in previous roles. Talk about how you’ve refined designs or solved problems through teamwork. This will illustrate your ability to work cross-functionally, which is crucial for this position.
✨Prepare Questions About Their Vision
Research Russell & Bromley’s Vision 2030 and be ready to ask insightful questions about their future plans. This shows that you’re not just interested in the job, but also in being part of their growth story. It’ll set you apart as a candidate who is forward-thinking and engaged.