Product Development Design Specialist - Footwear

Meijer•Grand Rapids, MI

1d•Hybrid

About The Position

The Product Development & Design Specialist is responsible for the end-to-end lifecycle of company-owned, exclusive footwear brands. This role partners with Design, Sourcing, and Marketing to deliver proprietary, high-margin product that differentiates the company in the marketplace. The position will follow a hybrid schedule: Monday-Wednesday in Grand Rapids MI office, Thursday-Friday remote.

Requirements

Bachelor’s degree in Fashion, Art, or a related field (or equivalent combination of education and experience).
5 to 7 years of experience in footwear product development and/or design.
Proficiency Adobe Illustrator and Photoshop.
Proficient in Microsoft Office.
Demonstrated ability to analyze sales data, forecast demand, and conduct competitive analyses.
Ability to evaluate, interpret, and apply market and trend insights.
Strong attention to detail, negotiation skills, and the ability to collaborate effectively with cross-functional teams (e.g., Buying, Sourcing, Marketing, Quality Assurance, Compliance).
Basic knowledge of footwear design and construction.
Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
Strong organizational skills.

Responsibilities

Lead product development and design for footwear for Meijer proprietary private label brands.
Ensure product and brand aesthetic align with the established brand position and apparel strategy.
Drive a cohesive brand vision by delivering assortments that meet strategy, price points, and overall creative direction.
Drive the design, sourcing, and development of new exclusive footwear styles from concept through production.
Create and maintain PLM packages and assortment line sheets.
Develop Illustrator sketches (flats) and communicate construction details to vendors and sourcing partners.
Analyze market trends, customer preferences, and competitor offerings to identify growth opportunities and new product concepts.
Prepare seasonal presentation boards for milestone meetings.
Negotiate with manufacturers on cost, quality, and production timelines to deliver competitive, high-margin product.
Lead timely communication with cross-functional partners to ensure alignment and on-time execution.