ABOUT THE ROLE
As an Associate Manager, Sourcing Development, Footwear, you will play a key role in supporting the development and commercialization process by ensuring quality of development samples and adherence to milestone timelines in line with the product creation calendar.
In this role, you will lead day-to-day development coordination with vendors while guiding junior team members where applicable. You will work closely with Tier 1 and Tier 2 factories to support engineering execution, product quality, and on-time delivery, while aligning with VF’s standards and best practices.
You will also collaborate with cross-functional partners to support product strategic initiatives and ensure smooth commercialization with strong focus on quality, costing, and operational efficiency.
KEY RESPONSIBILITIES
Development & Commercialization
Lead and coordinate development activities with Tier 1 and Tier 2 vendors across all sample stages
Review and validate development samples (including sales samples across countries of origin) to ensure quality and execution readiness
Support key development milestones including new bottoms, uppers, color-ups, fit approvals, material testing, wear testing, swatch sign-off and cost validation
Drive SKU-level Buy Ready planning in alignment with commercialization timelines
Communicate product requirements and technical expectations clearly to vendors and internal teams
Identify and resolve issues related to construction, performance, costing, and processes with guidance from senior team members where needed
Coordinate with factories on capacity planning and material readiness in line with production calendar
Review technical packages and support confirmation of pattern grading, tooling readiness, and sample size execution
Support development of production specifications and ensure accuracy of handover to production
Identify opportunities for cost optimization, process efficiency, and quality improvement, and contribute to implementation
Participate in Tech 2 trials, fit validation, and wear testing processes
Support new product introductions and highlight potential quality or commercialization risks during development reviews
Pre-Production & Production
Provide technical support during pre-production and early production phases to ensure smooth transition from development to bulk
Partner with cross-functional teams to address issues and ensure alignment on product quality and delivery timelines
Team & Stakeholder Collaboration
Provide guidance and day-to-day support to junior team members where applicable
Build strong working relationships with factory partners and internal stakeholders (Product, QA, Costing, Materials)
Contribute to team knowledge sharing and continuous improvement initiatives
KEY COMPETENCIES
Strong technical knowledge of footwear construction, materials, and development processes
Working knowledge of automation and computer stitching (upper pattern construction)
Good understanding of last making, measurements, and tooling (bottom/mold validation)
Ability to balance technical feasibility, design intent, and cost considerations
Ability to identify product risks and support corrective actions in partnership with stakeholders
Strong communication and stakeholder management skills
Proven ability to work in a fast-paced, cross-functional environment
Branded footwear experience preferred
Alignment with VF’s guiding principles: Integrity, Courage, Curiosity, Empathy, Perseverance
QUALIFICATIONS & EXPERIENCE
Experience in footwear product development and commercialization within a multinational environment
Exposure to development, pre-production, and production processes
Prior experience guiding or informally leading team members is a plus
Good command of English and strong communication skills
Proficiency in Microsoft Office (Word, Excel, etc.)
Travel: As required
R-20260528-0039