Journee Footwear Designer- Product Developer

JOURNEE

At Journee, we are dedicated to making the search for the perfect shoe effortless, empowering and celebrating women at every step. At the heart of our mission is the creation of footwear that seamlessly blends style and fit, honoring each moment and milestone. We're looking for individuals to join us in this commitment, to design not just shoes, but symbols of support and celebration for every step a woman takes.

Join us as we redefine what it means to find the perfect shoe.

The Footwear Designer/Product Developer will be instrumental in creating and developing innovative, market-leading footwear for our women's fashion brand. This role demands a strategic eye for trends and a deep understanding of the footwear development process. The ideal candidate will drive the creation of new products from inception to launch, ensuring alignment with the brand's vision and market demands.

Key responsibilities include conceptualizing and designing footwear, overseeing the entire product development lifecycle, collaborating with cross-functional teams, conducting market research, and maintaining strong relationships with suppliers and manufacturers. A keen eye for detail, a passion for delivering exceptional products, and a strong problem-solving aptitude are essential for success in this role. The ability to understand manufacturing capabilities, anticipate potential issues, and offer timely resolutions is crucial.

Responsibilities

• Compile trend research for upcoming seasons from industry trend forecasting, competitor analysis, current sales data, and customer tendencies.
• Evaluate the current assortment of styles and make informed decisions on styles to be retained or terminated based on sales performance and emerging trends.
• Create visually compelling seasonal design boards outlining trend directions for colors, materials, and silhouettes for the upcoming season.
• Construction knowledge of fashion footwear; Diverse construction skills i.e. cement, injection, Strobel, etc.
• Ability to create technical sketches and CAD illustrator
• Strong technical skills to make footwear corrections and problem solve with technicians in foreign offices
• Proficient in creating CADs using Adobe Photoshop and Adobe Illustrator
• Create and maintain detailed spec sheets including proto specs, salesman sample specs, and confirmation specs
• Conduct thorough market research to identify customer needs, market trends and competitive landscape, providing insights to inform product development decisions
• Create detailed tech packs complete with construction details
• Communicate daily with foreign offices regarding product development
• Ability to adapt quickly in the design process to address new projects that arise
• Research and present new and innovative design ideas as well as identify opportunities in the market
• Meets pre-determined calendar deadlines to maintain x/f
• Value engineer to ensure company margins are met; Work with suppliers and manufacturers to source components, materials and production processes that meet quality standards and cost targets
• Support brand-oriented technical development to sourcing partners in order to assess feasibility and timing of potential innovations
• Manage tech packs, BOMS, and costing
• Partner with all oversea teams to ensure samples are made according to specs
• Make decisions on design details, hardware, hardware colors/materials, and outsoles relevant to the upcoming season.
• Communicate finalized colorways for each specific style and provide feedback on received colors, making necessary changes for optimal aesthetics.
• Keep records of all samples received, including 1st, 2nd, and final samples.
• Travel overseas and collaborate with our sourcing teams, vendors, and factories on sample development and pattern design adjustments
• Ensure all styles are passed off and finalized before proceeding into production
• Update the Marketing team upon receiving samples suitable for photography
• Provide development information to the Marketing team to accurately market styles based on initial conception ideas
  
  

Required Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Product Design, Fashion Merchandising, or a related field
• 2-4 years of experience in Footwear design/product development or a similar role
• Strong understanding of design/product development processes, from ideation to commercialization
• Knowledge of manufacturing processes, materials and cost optimization techniques
• Strong business acumen and market awareness, with the ability to translate customer needs into product requirements
• Proficiency in product design software and tools
• Proficiency in using CAD (Computer-Aided Design) software
• Strong problem-solving and analytical skills, with attention to detail and a focus on delivering high-quality products
• Excellent project management skills, with the ability to prioritize tasks, manage multiple projects and meet deadlines
• A creative mindset and a passion for innovation and continuous improvement
• Excellent communication and collaboration skills to work effectively with cross-functional teams
• Ability to work independently and as part of a team
• High knowledge of the shoe industry
• Textile and PU knowledge
• High attention to detail
• Great communication skills
• Project management skills
  
  

Benefits

PTO and Work-Life Balance:

At KNS International, we know the importance of recharging and spending time away from work. We offer generous Paid Time Off (PTO), 17 paid holidays, and a flexible work environment that supports balance. Our culture is built around fostering an environment where creativity thrives, and team members feel valued.

Healthcare

Comprehensive medical, dental, and vision coverage are provided to ensure you and your family are taken care of. We also offer short-term and long-term disability plans, along with maternity and parental leave.

Retirement

Plan for your future with our 401(k) program, including employer matching to help you meet your retirement goals. Plus, you'll be immediately vested.

Perks And Wellness

We provide a variety of wellness initiatives, including free gym memberships, monthly massages, and access to Impact Suites for mental health support. Employees enjoy a fully stocked kitchen with snacks and drinks, recreational areas for breaks, and a dog-friendly workspace. Plus, you’ll receive free shoes and discounts through our employee purchase program.

Growth And Development

We believe in rewarding talent and encouraging growth. Join a collaborative environment that values innovation and provides ample opportunities to advance your career.

• Location: Draper, UT – Candidates must be willing to relocate if not currently local.
• Work Schedule: Hybrid position requiring in-office work on Tuesdays, Wednesdays, and Thursdays.
  
  

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