About the role

Aplyr's Quick Take

This role is for a Senior Engineer focused on footwear sourcing development, primarily managing sample quality and commercialization timelines with factories. You'll work closely with vendors to ensure product quality and compliance while addressing any issues that arise during the development and production phases.

Good fit

Ideal candidates have a background in footwear product development with several years of experience in commercialization and production processes. Strong relationship-building skills and a technical understanding of footwear materials are essential.

Worth noting

The position is remote but requires coordination with international factories, which may involve time zone challenges. The emphasis on cost-saving and efficiency improvements suggests a proactive problem-solving environment.

ABOUT THE ROLE

As an Engineer in Sourcing Development for Footwear, you will be responsible for ensuring the quality of development samples and meeting milestone dates according to the product creation calendar. You will manage commercialization timelines, coordinate Tier 2 activities at assigned factories, and ensure engineering for productivity, product quality, integrity, and performance in line with brand policies and best practices.

You will support VF’s product strategic initiatives and collaborate with cross-functional teams to ensure production quality, on-time performance, and compliance with VF standards.

KEY RESPONSIBILITIES

Development & Commercialization

Manage development processes with Tier 1 and Tier 2 vendors across all sample stages
Inspect development samples, including sales samples across countries of origin
Conduct activities related to new bottoms, uppers, color-ups, fit approval, material testing, wear testing, swatch sign-off, and cost approval
Plan Buy Ready process by SKU
Communicate product and performance requirements to vendors
Solve issues related to construction, performance, costing, and process
Coordinate factory capacity and material purchasing aligned with production calendar
Review tech package information and confirm pattern grading and tooling readiness
Confirm sample size patterns and molds for salesman samples
Assist in building production specifications
Propose and implement cost-saving, efficiency, automation, and quality improvement ideas
Conduct Tech 2 trials and confirm fit and wear testing
Introduce new products and cascade quality risks during tear-down and NPI meetings

Pre-Production & Production

Provide support as needed during pre-production and production phases

KEY COMPETENCIES

Deep technical knowledge of footwear categories and material properties
Basic knowledge of automation and computer stitching for upper pattern construction
General knowledge of last making, measurements, and mold/bottom checking
Ability to integrate technical applications without compromising design or cost
Ability to identify product quality and integrity risks and recommend corrective actions
Strong relationship-building skills with factories and cross-functional teams
Branded footwear experience required
Alignment with VF’s guiding principles: Integrity, Courage, Curiosity, Empathy, Perseverance

QUALIFICATIONS & EXPERIENCE

Experience in product development, commercialization, pre-production, and production in footwear or related fields within a multinational company
Good command of English and strong communication skills
Proficiency in Microsoft Office (Word, Excel, etc.)
Travel: As required

R-20260524-0018

Aplyr's read

VF Corporation stands out as a powerhouse in lifestyle apparel, attracting individuals passionate about outdoor and active brands like Vans and The North Face.
Synthesized from recent postings & public sources

What's promising

•VF Corporation boasts a strong portfolio with iconic brands like Vans and The North Face.
•The company has a global presence, enhancing brand reach and market influence.
•VF's focus on sustainability aligns with growing consumer demand for eco-friendly products.

What to watch

•Heavy reliance on a few key brands could pose risks if consumer preferences shift.
•Intense competition in the apparel industry may impact market share.
•Economic downturns can significantly affect discretionary spending on lifestyle apparel.

Why VF Corporation

•VF Corporation's brand diversity covers multiple lifestyle segments, from outdoor to urban.
•The company has a long-standing commitment to sustainability and innovation.
•VF's strategic acquisitions have strengthened its market position and brand portfolio.

Aplyr’s read is generated by AI from public sources. Was it useful?

About VF Corporation

VF Corporation

vfc.com

View company

VF Corporation is a global leader in branded lifestyle apparel, footwear, and accessories, known for its diverse portfolio of outdoor and active lifestyle brands.