[Hiring] Product & Materials Manager @Wolverine Outdoors, Inc. (United States)

Role Description

The Product and Materials Manager drives product, material, and process excellence by partnering with PLM & Design to translate the design intent throughout the entire development process.

• Manage the product creation process from design to buy-ready in partnership with design and sourcing partners, by utilizing creative and technical skills.
• Serve as a pro-active conduit between Design and sourcing partners throughout the seasonal development process.
• Propose design and/or sample changes, as appropriate, to better align to the original drawings or visual intent and brief targets.
• Lead and manage a robust review process of each technical pack against the briefing goals and effectively communicate results to help inform/improve product creation and manufacturability.
• Create and maintain the brand’s core, as well as seasonal materials library books in Rockford to encompass a variety of textures and prices options at each factory.
• Partner with sourcing and/or material suppliers to find new seasonal materials based on the needs of the seasonal briefs and product direction.
• Responsible for defining and maintaining consistent fit within the brand.
• Act as the liaison between WWW fit team and Agent/Sourcing partner.
• Collaborate with PLM & design on product briefs to set pricing expectations for construction, technology, materials, etc.
• Responsible for writing commercial, compelling, detailed specs that ensure hitting brief targets and maximize effectiveness.
• Participate in field research to identify industry trends, competitive direction, customer expectations and consumer perceptions; integrate research into thought process and design.
• Capture and communicate logistics of new line development product data from prototype to final sales sample for new line development.
• Manage the seasonal sample status.
• Approve invoices and other expenses related directly to product development.
• Perform duties consistent with the Company’s AAP/EEO goals and policies.
• Perform other duties as required/assigned by manager.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree or equivalent experience required.
• 7+ years of product development experience required.
• Technically and creatively proficient with an extensive understanding of footwear constructions and ability to adjust designs as needed.
• Advanced knowledge of fit/construction and costing.
• Ability to effectively communicate verbally and visually through sketches, illustrations, specs and renderings.
• Exceptional follow-through skills and attention to detail.
• Supports a culture of curiosity and innovation through a test & learn approach.
• Working knowledge of materials science and their application in product design.
• Solid communication skills are required, including the ability to manage strong and effective cross-functional relationships within the organization.
• In-depth computer skills and preferred experience with 3D, Adobe Illustrator and Photo-Shop software.

Requirements

• Normal office environment.
• Some travel may be required.
• Flexible, hybrid work schedule, with three days in office and two days remote.

Company Description

Wolverine Worldwide is a global marketer of branded footwear, apparel, and accessories. With an established global footprint that spans approximately 200 countries and territories, Wolverine Worldwide is dedicated to advancing the following brands that comprise the ever-expanding portfolio: Bates, Chaco, Cat Footwear, Harley Davidson Footwear, Hush Puppies, Merrell, Saucony, Sweaty Betty and Wolverine.

Wolverine Worldwide’s continued success is driven by our ability to stay true to our simple mission: we empower, engage and inspire our consumers – every step of the way.