VP, Technical Product Development

Caleres • Saint Louis, MO

2d

About The Position

Join our dynamic and thriving footwear company as a Vice President, Technical Product Development in St. Louis, MO where you'll have the opportunity to make an impact and shape the future of our renowned brands. If you have a passion for fashion, eager to learn and have an eye for detail, this is the perfect role for you! As a member of our team, you'll be part of a company that values results, caring and learning. What will you be doing? Lead End-to-End Technical Strategy: Own and drive the global technical development roadmap from concept to commercialization across all footwear categories. Set Global Standards: Establish and enforce fit philosophies, construction frameworks, and technical best practices across regions and manufacturing partners. Ensure Product Excellence: Provide executive-level guidance to deliver superior fit, comfort, quality, sustainability, cost efficiency, and scalability—without compromising design intent. Build World-Class Teams: Develop and mentor top technical talent, strengthening succession pipelines and future-ready capabilities across regions and product categories. Drive Innovation: Lead cross-functional innovation initiatives, aligning technical development with sourcing strategy, testing protocols, and scalable production solutions. Champion Digital Transformation: Serve as an executive advocate for Digital Product Creation (3D), accelerating adoption of tools such as Rhino, ICAD, and related technologies to enhance speed, precision, and collaboration. Advance Sustainability: Integrate environmentally preferred materials, certifications, and responsible manufacturing practices into product and process decisions. Oversee Testing & Validation: Establish comprehensive product testing and performance measurement strategies to ensure commercial readiness and build consumer trust. Mitigate Risk Proactively: Identify and address technical and production risks early through rigorous review processes and proactive problem-solving. Collaborate Cross-Functionally: Partner with Merchandising, Sales, Planning, and Operations to execute test programs and leverage performance insights to inform future development. Accelerate Speed to Market: Drive continuous improvement initiatives that streamline development operations, connect global teams, and support scalable growth.

Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree/ advanced degree preferred and/or equivalent professional experience.
• 15+ years of progressive technical development experience in the footwear industry, including senior leadership roles.
• Demonstrated expertise across all footwear categories, constructions, and global production methods.
• Proven track record leading large‑scale innovation initiatives from concept through commercialization
• Deep technical expertise in: Last development, blueprint interpretation, 3D reading and execution, and paper/digital pattern engineering
• Upper materials, outsole systems, tooling, and construction techniques
• Global manufacturing processes and production scalability
• Strong ability to set brand strategy, influence executive stakeholders, and lead change
• Understanding of product testing standards, quality frameworks, and performance validation
• Knowledge of environmentally preferred materials, sustainability frameworks, certifications, and material traceability
• Familiarity with customs duties, regional regulations, and global trade considerations
• Proficiency in 3D design and development tools (Rhino, ICAD, or equivalent preferred)
• Strong working knowledge of PLM systems (Flex PLM preferred)
• Proficient in Microsoft Office; Adobe Illustrator and Photoshop a plus

Responsibilities

• Lead End-to-End Technical Strategy
• Set Global Standards
• Ensure Product Excellence
• Build World-Class Teams
• Drive Innovation
• Champion Digital Transformation
• Advance Sustainability
• Oversee Testing & Validation
• Mitigate Risk Proactively
• Collaborate Cross-Functionally
• Accelerate Speed to Market

Benefits

• Our Shoe Discounts. No matter your style, we’ve got your perfect fit covered with a 30% Associate Discount across Famous Footwear and Caleres brands
• Career Development and Learning Opportunities. Sharpen your skills with our Learning Database of 12,000+ courses, LinkedIn Learning, and upfront education assistance.
• Benefits that Start Day One. To learn more details about our total rewards including 401k, health benefits and PTO, visit www.yourcaleres.com
• Mental Wellness. Your mental health is important to us, and we offer free, 24/7 confidential support and resources through CompPsych EAP for eligible associates
• Relaxed Dress Code. At Caleres, we believe that the right shoes can take you anywhere, and your authentic self is always in style. Feel free to leave your professional attire in the back of your closet!

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Executive