Merchandiser

Footwear Merchandiser (Product Development & Production)

We are looking for an experienced Footwear Merchandiser to manage end-to-end product development and production for our brand. This role requires close coordination with designers, factories, and internal teams to ensure smooth execution from concept to final product.

Key Responsibilities:

1. Product Development

- Coordinate with designers to understand design intent, construction, and materials

- Work closely with factories during sampling and development stages

- Ensure accurate execution of designs, especially technical components (e.g., heels, fittings, mechanisms)

- Troubleshoot development issues and suggest practical solutions

2. Factory Coordination & Visits

- Travel to factories regularly for development follow-ups

- Monitor sampling progress, quality, and timelines

- Build and maintain strong relationships with vendors and manufacturers

- Ensure factories understand product requirements clearly

3. Material & Swatch Selection

- Source and finalize materials in coordination with design team

- Evaluate swatches for quality, cost, and suitability

- Ensure material consistency across production

4. Fit, Testing & Quality

- Oversee fitting sessions and product trials

- Ensure comfort, durability, and functionality standards are met

- Coordinate corrections and improvements with factories

5. Range Planning Support

- Work with designers on range planning and product mix

- Provide inputs on feasibility, costing, and timelines

- Help balance design vision with production practicality

6. Production & Order Management

- Prepare and manage purchase orders (POs)

- Track production timelines and ensure timely delivery

- Monitor bulk production quality and consistency

7. Costing & Commercial Awareness

- Negotiate with vendors for cost optimization

- Maintain balance between design, quality, and margin

Requirements:

- 36+ years of experience in footwear merchandising

- Connections with relevant industry people

- Strong understanding of footwear construction (heels, uppers, soles, fittings)

- Experience working with factories and handling product development

- Has a vehicle and the willingness to travel frequently

- Good communication and problem-solving skills

- Ability to manage multiple styles and timelines

Preferred:

- Experience with women footwears or experimental footwear (heels, concept products, etc.)

- Exposure to both Indian and international manufacturing

What We're Looking For:

Someone who takes ownership not just follows up, but drives development forward. A person who understands both design and production, and can make things happen on ground level.

Location: Noida

Type: Full-time

Email: [Confidential Information]