Lead Footwear Innovation & Prototyping

HOKA; Portland (OR); Hybrid; USD 109,000 - 147,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive pay and bonuses

Financial planning and wellbeing

Time away from work

Extras, discounts and perks

Growth and development

Health and wellness

Job summary

Deckers Brands in Portland, Oregon is seeking a Lead Product Developer for HOKA Innovation to translate athlete needs into breakthrough footwear concepts, leading concepts from ideation to performance-validated prototypes with a cross-functional team.

The role emphasizes collaboration with global suppliers and Asia factories, rapid prototyping, and creating plans that meet athlete performance targets while exploring new business models.

Qualifications

• 6+ years progressive experience in the footwear industry for a global company.
• Experience leading projects with global development teams, including Asia factories and suppliers.
• Knowledge of fundamental athletic footwear constructions, materials, and manufacturing processes.
• Proven ability to articulate success criteria and create clear project plans.

Responsibilities

• Develop next-generation footwear concepts from ideation to prototypes.
• Lead rapid prototyping and collaboration with innovators.
• Create samples and experiments to reach target performance metrics.
• Translate athlete problems into novel constructions and materials.
• Guide cross-functional teams to shape radical concepts and ensure clear goals.

Skills

Leadership

Project management

Cross-functional collaboration

Prototyping

Creative thinking

Communication

Mentorship

Education

Bachelor's degree

Master's degree preferred

Job description

Deckers Brands in Portland, Oregon is seeking a Lead Product Developer for HOKA Innovation to translate athlete needs into breakthrough footwear concepts, leading concepts from ideation to performance-validated prototypes with a cross-functional team.

The role emphasizes collaboration with global suppliers and Asia factories, rapid prototyping, and creating plans that meet athlete performance targets while exploring new business models.