Footwear Product Developer

JR United Kingdom; Slough; Hybrid; GBP 45,000 - 65,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading fashion footwear and accessories company in the UK is seeking a full-time hybrid Product Developer. This role involves managing the complete development process from concept to production for both casual and formal products while working closely with designers and European factories. Ideal candidates will have extensive experience in luxury footwear development and strong supplier management skills.

Qualifications

• 5–8 years’ experience in premium or luxury footwear development.
• Strong technical knowledge across casual and formal footwear.
• Experience collaborating with European factories (Italy, Spain, Portugal).

Responsibilities

• Manage the full product development lifecycle for footwear and accessories.
• Translate design concepts into prototypes and samples.
• Maintain technical specs and costing accuracy.

Skills

Technical expertise in footwear construction

Supplier management

Problem-solving ability

Communication skills

Detail-oriented

Job description

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We are working with an established, independent fashion footwear and accessories company is seeking a fulltime 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