Product Developer - Footwear

ABOUT DESIGNWORKS Designworks is Brand Collective’s product development powerhouse, bringing globally recognised brands to life through innovative design, technical expertise and strong commercial execution. Working across apparel, footwear and accessories, the team partners with leading international and local brands to create product that resonates with consumers and performs in market. From concept through to production, Designworks combines creative thinking with deep product knowledge and global sourcing capability to deliver ranges that balance style, function and commercial success. ROLE IN A NUTSHELL As Product Developer - Footwear, you will lead the end-to-end development of footwear products from initial concept through to finished product. Working closely with design, sourcing, production and account teams, you’ll ensure footwear ranges are developed to meet brand vision, quality standards and commercial targets. This role combines creative product development with strong technical expertise in footwear construction, materials and manufacturing, ensuring every product is market relevant, commercially viable and delivered on time. WHAT YOU’LL BE DOING Leading the end-to-end development of footwear products from concept through to productionTranslating design direction and seasonal concepts into commercially viable footwear rangesCollaborating with design, sourcing and production teams to ensure products meet quality, cost and timeline requirementsManaging development timelines and critical paths to ensure samples, approvals and production stay on scheduleWorking closely with offshore factories and suppliers to manage sampling, materials and production challengesLeading fit sessions and wear testing to ensure comfort, performance and quality standards are metSourcing materials, components and trims that align with brand requirements and cost targetsManaging licensor submissions and approvals where applicableConducting market and competitor research to inform product development and innovationIdentifying opportunities to optimise costs while maintaining product integrity and performance ABOUT YOU You’re a detail-oriented product developer with a strong understanding of footwear construction and a passion for bringing commercially successful products to market. You’ll likely bring: Experience in footwear product development or a similar roleStrong knowledge of footwear materials, construction and manufacturing processesExperience working with offshore suppliers and manufacturing partnersThe ability to manage multiple development timelines and projects simultaneouslyStrong communication and stakeholder management skillsExperience using PLM systems, Adobe Creative Suite and Microsoft OfficeA strong interest in footwear trends, innovation and consumer behaviour JUST SOME PERKS WE OFFER Pet-friendly workspace - Yes, your furry friend can join you at work!Product allowance & Generous discounts - Up to 50% off top brands like Reebok, Superdry, and Elka Collective!Exclusive LK Group discounts - Treat yourself to savings at Daniel’s Donuts, Hommey, Snooze & more!Access to sample sales - Exclusive to Brand Collective team members only.Leave when it matters - Celebration leave, paid parental leave, volunteer leave.Novated leasing - Drive your dream car with ease.Loyalty rewards - We celebrate your milestones with generous service awards!Well-being matters - Corporate Discount on Health Cover, Free access to Mental Health Professionals through our Employee Assistance Program. READY TO MAKE AN IMPACT? Bring your footwear product development expertise to a team that creates innovative, market-leading products and helps bring globally recognised brands to life. ABOUT BRAND COLLECTIVE Brand Collective is one of Australia's most prominent apparel, footwear & sport groups, operating our omnichannel offer across 300+ stores with over 3,000 team members, a comprehensive online business and an extensive wholesale network. Our portfolio ranges from iconic heritage to timeless contemporary, from street culture to considered craftsmanship, and from private label to international luxury fashion brands. We bring brands to life! At Brand Collective our customers come from all walks of life, and so do we! We value diversity and inclusion in all forms, thus hire based on capability and performance. If you feel like your skills align with the role and company culture, apply today to bring brands to life! Please note: at this time, Brand Collective are not seeking recruitment agency support for this role, and will not be liable for any unsolicited candidate profiles or associated fees. We encourage applicants to apply directly to this posting if they would like to be considered for this opportunity. The advertising of this role may close earlier than the listed date, and we encourage applicants to apply early.