Midrand: Footwear Developer & Quality Controller posted by Placement Point

About the Role

Placement Point is seeking an experienced Footwear Developer & Quality Controller to manage the development of our footwear ranges. The ideal candidate will have a strong understanding of footwear construction, materials, manufacturing processes, and fit requirements, as well as excellent organizational, planning, and administrative skills.

Key Responsibilities

• Develop seasonal footwear and accessory ranges aligned with brand strategy and market trends.
• Manage product development from initial concept through sampling and final production approval.
• Approve colourways, materials, trims, branding applications, packaging, and product specifications.
• Conduct trend analysis, competitor research, and market reviews to identify opportunities for product innovation.
• Create and develop product concepts, technical briefs, and development documentation.
• Utilize AI image generation and image editing tools to create realistic product visualizations, colour modifications, concept developments, and presentation materials.
• Collaborate with suppliers to ensure product specifications and quality expectations are clearly communicated and achieved.
• Conduct Pre-Production, Pre-Bulk, and Bulk Quality Assurance inspections.
• Evaluate workmanship, materials, branding applications, sizing, packaging, and overall product construction.
• Identify, document, and communicate quality concerns to suppliers and management.
• Monitor corrective action plans and ensure quality issues are resolved effectively.
• Maintain regular communication with local and international suppliers.
• Follow up on development samples, approvals, production timelines, and outstanding actions.
• Ensure suppliers receive accurate branding files, artwork, technical specifications, and packaging requirements.
• Build and maintain professional supplier relationships.
• Support negotiations and problem-solving to ensure deadlines and quality standards are achieved.

Requirements

• Proven experience in Footwear Development, Merchandising, and/or Quality Assurance.
• Strong understanding of footwear construction, materials, manufacturing processes, and fit requirements.
• Experience managing footwear development from concept through production.
• Advanced Microsoft Excel skills.
• Advanced Adobe Illustrator skills.
• Advanced Adobe Photoshop skills.
• Advanced experience using AI image generation and image editing platforms.
• Ability to create realistic product renderings, colour changes, concept developments, and visual presentations using AI tools.
• Strong organizational, planning, and administrative skills.
• Excellent communication and supplier management abilities.
• Ability to manage multiple projects simultaneously and work under pressure to meet deadlines.

Qualifications

• Formal education/certifications not specified in the original job description.