Manager, Sourcing Operations, Footwear

About your role:

You will lead a team of specialists responsible to oversee the day-to-day production operations across assigned locations at T1 factories. This role acts as the first line of escalation, supports on production issues troubleshooting and collaborates closely with VF functional teams and Factory partners to drive performance on Quality, OTP and Social/Environmental Compliance. Additionally, you will support on driving continuous process improvement, championing change, and fostering a culture of operational excellence and innovation.

This  position requires frequent travel to factory sites across the designated locations within the country. This role is ideal for a results-driven professional with strong production operational acumen and leadership capabilities. Success in this role depends on the ability to collaborate effectively, build strong internal and external relationships, and champion continuous improvement.

Your responsibilities will include (but not limited):

• Lead and develop a team of specialists, coach performance and support professional growth;
• Manage a portfolio of factories within the assigned country, ensuring core KPIs are consistently met or exceeded;
• Actively contribute on Risk Assessment (TD) and Pre-Production (T4) meetings by identifying risks and recommending actions to safeguard product quality and performance, ensuring alignment with brand standards and industry best practices. Promote a “Speak-up” culture.
• Take full accountability for resolving production-related issues (e.g., material delays, low output) in close collaboration with VF functions and Factory partners.
• Participate in root cause analysis and CAP reviews for quality claims with the QM team. Facilitate CAP implementation and ensure effectiveness of actions implemented
• Support the RSO (Responsible Sourcing Ops) team in driving the completion of social/environmental compliance corrective action plans and assist in implementing VF’s environmental and social programs (e.g., Higg Index, WCD, LABS).
• Co-lead the automation strategy with the Commercialization team and support factories in adopting lean manufacturing and best-in-class practices;
• Leverage data analytics to improve factory performance and efficiency.
• Maintain strong relationships with cross-functional partners and act as the key contact point for operational escalations;
• Stay informed of industry trends, material innovations, and manufacturing best practices.
• Promote a culture of compliance, accountability, and continuous improvement under the guidance of the VF Values.  Embrace the VF “Winning Together” culture in every interaction with your direct reports, internal stakeholders and cross-functional teams.

What we will be looking for in you:

• Knowledge of the product category within the scope of this role with proven experience - deep understanding of manufacturing processes, materials, and construction methods;

• You will be coaching and developing your team, providing timely constructive feedback enabling them to excel and realize their potential.
• Proven leadership experience in managing multi-cultural teams and ability to influence stakeholders to advance business goals.
• Drive and passion to make a difference, presenting a growth mindset that role models positivity and curiosity to your team and peers.
• Ability to lead, facilitate and champion change.
• Product Development or Technical expertise will be an advantage.

Key Attributes:

• Embodies the highest level of personal and professional integrity and ethics.

• Passion for product and a consumer-first mindset;

• Able to manage complex and conflicting interpersonal interactions with others, solve problems, make decisions and work effectively under pressure. 
• Possesses excellent organizational and analytical skills and prioritize and can successfully execute multiple tasks/projects.
• Able to collaborate with peers and superiors while building relationships with individuals and organizations across the globe. 
• Culturally sensitive and aware.
• Demonstrates a creative, energetic, and motivated spirit.

Our Expectation For Demonstrating Leadership

• 　Strategic Leadership
  • Understands and has ability to explain organization vision and strategic goals to the team, and how daily operations activities related to achieving overall direction
  • Participates in planning and prioritization; identifies opportunities to improve effectiveness through cross-functional collaboration
     
• Growing People & Teams
  • Supports employee performance and development through coaching and feedback.
  • Encourages collaboration and shared learning to strengthen team performance
  • Leads by example, demonstrating continuous improvement and adaptability
• Driving Results
  • Focuses on achieving objectives through execution against aligned processes and ways of working
  • Anticipates & prevents problems that could impact team performance
  • Proactively seeks solutions to solve problems effectively to maintain team performance.
• Partnership
  • Works effectively with peers and partners, provides constructive feedback to drive achievement of shared goals
  • Builds strong relationships and ensure clear, transparent communication within their teams and with stakeholders.
  • Understands cross functional goals that support team objectives and business outcomes.

Desirable Qualifications & Competencies:

• Bachelor’s degree in Industrial Engineering, Supply Chain, Business, or related field. MBA is a plus;
• Minimum 5-7 years of experience in the field of production operations, with at least 3 years in a managerial role;
• Experience working with overseas factories, and a multi-cultural factory management team;
• Proven experience in leading & developing team.
• Proficient in Microsoft Office, PLM systems, and production planning tools.
• Fluent in English (written and Verbal)  additional languages (Vietnamese, Khmer, Mandarin) are a plus.
• Willingness and ability to travel extensively within the region.