Summary

Hush Puppies is the go-to footwear, accessory and apparel brand that delivers the right mix of timeless style, dependable comfort and quality. Since 1958, the brand has defined authentic casual style for generations of consumers around the world. Today, Hush Puppies is the favorite shoe for all who embrace the lighthearted spirit and modern style of this iconic brand – represented by our lovable basset hound! With over 17 Million pairs sold every year in over 165 countries around the world, Hush Puppies has become more than a global brand, it's a household name and a cultural icon! We invented casual style, you make it your own. Hush Puppies.

The Product Management and Design Director sets the design vision and line architecture strategy for all of Hush Puppies. They are responsible for communicating this vision to key stakeholders and directing all aspects of line planning, merchandising and go-to-market strategies. They will oversee all elements of seasonal product execution from strategic planning to execution.

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Job Description

Oversees the execution of all product details, ensuring footwear designs are on brand and consumer relevant.
Leads and presents line concepts, product and strategic vision to management, retailers, and teammates at a wide range of formal and informal meetings.
Directs the brand’s design team and manages design resources.
Works with designers to deliver brand-appropriate creative direction for the season including trend research.
Oversees the construction of seasonal line plans and product briefs. Directs the seasonal style editing process.
Delivers architecture, positioning and price points, flow and execution of franchise management through assortment planning.
Works with product managers and marketing team to collaborate on seasonal stories and educate on all key selling features and benefits.
Partners with materials team to direct seasonal material needs.
Liaises with a global network of stakeholders, including regional directors, merchants and key licensees to gather insights to help identify opportunities.
Identifies the brand’s whitespace opportunities and capitalizes on category extensions to drive brand growth.
Performs duties consistent with the Company’s AAP/EEO goals and policies.
Performs other duties as required/assigned by manager.

Knowledge, Skills and Abilities Required

Bachelor's degree required/MBA preferred or equivalent work experience.
8+ years’ experience in footwear, apparel or accessories.
Proven leadership skills with at least 3 years’ experience at the manager level.
Proven working knowledge of footwear industry, including technology and product development, materials, trends and the overall marketplace.
Extensive product knowledge and understanding of global markets and competitors.
Strong business acumen, merchandising and analytical skill sets.
Exceptional follow-through skills and attention to detail.
Outstanding presentation and communication skills are required, including the ability to manage strong and effective cross functional relationships within the organization.
Proficient in retail math.

Working Conditions

Normal office environment.

Wolverine Worldwide has a flexible, hybrid work schedule, with three days in office and two days remote.

#LI-Hybrid #LI-KD

The above statements are intended to describe the general nature and level of work being performed and are not intended to be an exhaustive list of all responsibilities, duties and skills which may be required.

We are committed to a diverse workforce, we are an Equal Opportunity Employer (Minorities/Women/Veterans/Disabled).

Product Management and Design Director - Hush Puppies