Product Developer - Footwear & Accessories

Russell & Bromley; London; Hybrid; GBP 40,000 - 55,000; Full time

Job summary

A luxury fashion brand based in London is seeking an experienced Product Developer to manage the end-to-end development of casual footwear and accessories. The ideal candidate will have a strong background in premium footwear and a track record of working with European factories. Join a dynamic team in a hybrid work environment as we enter an exciting phase of growth.

Qualifications

• Experience managing costings and supplier negotiations.
• Proven track record of working with European factories.
• Willingness to travel for factory visits as needed.

Responsibilities

• Lead the full product development process from design handover to production-ready samples.
• Partner with designers to refine sketches and constructions.
• Manage fit development and feedback processes.
• Source and manage supplier relationships.

Skills

Experience in premium or luxury footwear and accessories development

Deep technical knowledge of last-making and construction methods

Problem-solving skills

Confident communication

Attention to detail

Job description

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 that include a commitment to brand and product transformation, continued growth of our UK & IRE retail footprint, and accelerated international expansion. An exciting opportunity to join at a huge inflection point for the business, coinciding with the launch of our first seasonal collection with new Creative Director, Daniel Beardsworth-Shaw and the relocation of our Global HQ to Kingly St. W1 in the heart of Soho, now home to our in-house design, creative, and product studios.

Do you want to be part of our next chapter?

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\'ll 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.