Role Overview
We are seeking an experienced Technical and Sourcing Manager with strong footwear technical expertise to support the full product lifecycle from development through to production. This role is responsible for managing technical and fit requirements, product sourcing, quality control and the critical path to ensure products meet customer requirements, legal standards, and production deadlines.
The successful candidate will work closely with internal teams, customers, and factories to deliver high-quality footwear products while maintaining strong technical standards and efficient critical path management.
Key Responsibilities
- Provide clear, accurate, and concise technical and fit comments throughout the full product lifecycle, from development to final production.
- Lead and manage fit sessions using fit models and prosthetic feet to ensure product fit and performance standards are achieved.
- Support international sourcing activities across the world which will include overseas travel.
- Oversee quality control processes within factories to maintain product standards and consistency.
- Manage any quality control concerns, faulty issues, and corrective actions as they arise.
- Confirm product testing requirements in line with legal and customer standards.
- Plan and manage factory audits and capacity, ensuring compliance with company and customer requirements.
- Manage customer compliance and factory requirements as needed, including but not limited to ZDHC, Worldly, LWG and GRS.
- Support the wider Commercial team with critical path management to ensure all key deadlines and customer milestones are met.
- Supervise the Assistant Technologist and Product Admin Assistants in the Commercial team.
Skills & Experience Required
- Previous experience as a Footwear Technologist is essential.
- Strong problem-solving skills with the ability to identify and resolve issues efficiently.
- Highly organised with excellent time management and prioritisation skills.
- Strong attention to detail and accuracy.
- Proficient in Microsoft Office 365.
- Fast learner with the ability to quickly understand and adapt to new systems and processes.
- Strong communication skills with the ability to work effectively across teams, customers, and factories.
Personal Attributes
- Proactive and solution-focused.
- Commercially aware with a practical approach.
- Confident managing multiple priorities.
- Team player with a collaborative working style.