Footwear Innovation Developer

Summary

The job is for a Footwear Innovation Developer I at Brooks in Vietnam, HCMC. The role involves participating in multiple innovation projects, managing product development of high-performance footwear, and driving research, sample material acquisition, prototype building, concept validation, and factory collaboration.

Requirements

• 3+ successful years of experience managing product development of high-performance footwear projects
• Bachelor’s Degree in English Language, Engineering, Design, Biomechanics or other applicable technical degrees or equivalent combination of education and/or experience
• Experience and technical knowledge in sustainable materials, footwear development, and post-consumer strategies is a plus
• Technical experience in footwear product development with a strong understanding of the total footwear construction process including outsole/midsole drawing, pattern engineering, material construction, testing and costing
• Understanding of manufacturing techniques, anticipating issues, and problem solving with timely resolution
• Proven ability to drive a decision in a collaborative, cross-functional and complex global environment without command/control to meet strategic objectives
• Keen attention to detail in planning, organization and execution of tasks (self and through others). Willingness to dive into the details to better understand the ‘why.’
• Demonstrated ability to develop highly productive relationships with individuals and teams that are made up of diverse disciplines and cultural backgrounds resulting in effective working relationships across the company
• Experience managing relationships with existing T1, T2 and T3 suppliers. Learn how to communicate complex ideas and promote innovative thinking in our partner network
• Strong verbal and written communication skills, with an ability to communicate new ideas, concepts and functional expertise within project teams and to external stakeholders
• Presentation skills. Professional knowledge of PowerPoint, Keynote or other electronic means to communicate new concepts or ideas. Technical writing capability a plus
• Curious and open minded; always open for a challenge, inventive, creative. With the ability to challenge the status quo – always looking at improving our products and processes while also displaying a willingness to dive into the details
• Strong computer skills including experience with Illustrator, MS Office software
• Ability to travel domestically and internationally as needed

Responsibilities

• Participate in multiple innovation projects from Portfolio Review, Brief & Research through Design, Development & Validation and into Commercialization & Manufacturing
• Assist on the creation and execution of project development plans/ schedules according to strategic critical dates that lead to on–time delivery of samples in support of key meetings and milestones
• Manage the prototyping, testing and validation of concepts through problem solving and product creation skills which include pattern making and construction techniques; blueprints (technical packages), mold creation and midsole/ outsole making; Lab, fit, wear and biomechanical testing; and manufacturing processes used in the creation of our product
• Partner with design, product management, engineering, manufacturing and vendor/ partners to ensure that products exceed runner expectations, are manufacturable and meet performance and quality objectives of the organization
• Build capability to act as a technical consultant to product teams on materials, components and construction decisions to meet product’s functional goals, as well as assure product performance integrity through product testing (physical and field testing)
• Continuously grow knowledge of the product creation and manufacturing processes, allowing for new ideas that will enhance product performance
• Initiate and participate in meetings with product teams during various phases of development to review, evaluate, update and ultimately drive the decision-making process that leads to on–time production confirmation and margin goals
• Utilize creative thinking and formulate proposals to transfer new ideas into concept creation and product implementation
• Participate in development trips, 3 - 4 per year, to work with manufacturers and suppliers on existing and current development projects
• Create and build a knowledge base and stay informed about vendor capabilities and performance, factory relationships, quality issues, materials pricing and lead times. Special focus on sustainable materials, manufacturing technologies, recyclability techniques and post-consumer downcycling strategies

Preferred Qualifications

Passionate participation in Brooks’ sports activities a plus, overridden by the ability to understand and empathize with the runner in order to develop loyal, engaging relationships with our customers and the Brooks community

Benefits

At Brooks, we celebrate diversity & equity. We are committed to creating an inclusive environment, and encourage people of all backgrounds, perspectives, experiences, and skills to apply