Product Developer

Based in Sausalito and handcrafted in Spain, Frēda Salvador is an artisan brand that is both modern and streamlined in its approach to footwear & accessories. The brand is both approachable and effortless offering a sought after versatility that makes them the go‑to for everyday occasions. We are a fast paced startup and are hustling everyday. We are driven. We are small, but mighty with strong values in teamwork, a positive and supportive work environment, and building our community from the ground up. We are looking for a footwear and accessories Product Developer who is a self‑starter, takes initiative, thinks proactively and has superior communication skills to join the Product team The ideal candidate has 3-5 years of experience in a similar role, with technical knowledge of footwear and handbags. This role will work closely with the Sr. Director of Product Development and Production to manage the development of 4 collections per year, executing expertly the vision of the design team and ensuring the product is developed for approval at PO placement. EXPECTATIONS FOR ALL EMPLOYEES Supports the FRĒDA’s mission, vision, and values by exhibiting the following behaviors: excellence and competence, collaboration, innovation, respect, personalization, accountability, ownership, and a commitment to our community and a diverse and inclusive work environment. ABOUT THE ROLE The Product Developer is a crucial role on the Freda Salvador product team. This role is responsible for overseeing the product lifecycle from initial tech pack through product launch. Working closely with the design and development teams, the Product Developer must successfully build the product to design intent while maintaining fit integrity, cost targets and material requirements for a successfully developed product being handed off to the Production team at purchase order placement. At Freda Salvador, we are a fast paced organization that encourages team members to take ownership over their responsibilities and manage their time accordingly. This role requires a highly organized, detail‑orientated individual with technical footwear and handbag knowledge. This role operates out of the Corporate HQ office with a hybrid schedule. DAY TO DAY RESPONSIBILITIES In partnership with our Product Assistant, management of the material library for footwear and accessories, organized for self‑service across the product and cross‑functional teams. Partner with design to identify new material sourcing needs at concept. Consistent updating of material reference document with end use, article, cost, thickness, tannery, lead times, MOQ etc. Updating and maintenance of all internal material libraries for the Product team ensuring accurate labeling of cost, MOQ, lead times on all swatches. Identify and prepare long‑lead material orders for manufacturing partners. Tracking materials for prototypes and samples, ensuring all sample deadlines are met in accordance with the critical path. Review material stock and keep up to date to reduce material liability with manufacturing partners. Manage product lifecycle, utilizing deadlines outlined in the critical path, from sketch submission to final line sample delivery, communicating closely with production and design teams as well as cross‑functional teams. Submission of tech packs to all external manufacturing partners providing clear and concise information for adequate proto execution following design intent. Ownership of seasonal assortment tools for all product categories seasonally by vendor. Management of all design / development deliverables ensuring on‑time deadlines internally are met to give external suppliers adequate time to execute against all deadlines provided. Assist Manager with product and material price negotiation to achieve target LDP margin. Management of the fit process with the Product team to identify and suggest improvements for aesthetic, fit and quality execution. Partner with the Product team to run fit sessions, taking ownership of detailed notes and photos, and recommending improvements in aesthetics, fit, and quality to ensure style approval by line sample stage. Identify 2nd proto requests and necessary wear tests for high‑risk styles and new constructions with clear communication to external manufacturing partners. Monitor / Update BvA to ensure expenditure remains within budget based on supplier invoices. Approval for suppliers of all invoices and responsible for submission of those invoices for payment to the finance team. Work closely with the CEX / Ops team to audit return rates and analyze data to ascertain product or fit improvements to reduce return rates. In partnership with Design, ownership over linesheets and ensuring all information is updated. Accurately and adequately hand off all pending product development to the production team upon PO placement so communication with all partners is streamlined by team function. Reports directly into the Senior Director of Product Development & Production. Travel up 4 times per year. REQUIREMENTS 3-5 years experience in product development. Communication skills are critical for ensuring accurate information across company and with external partners. System/data management, and ad hoc reporting. Highly detail‑oriented. Proficiency in Adobe Suite and Google Suite. Familiarity with footwear and accessory components, materials and material performance standards. Strong interpersonal skills and the ability to communicate clearly to broader teams. Exceptional organizational skills. COMPANY BENEFITS AND COMPENSATION: Alongside a unique and incredible culture, FREDA SALVADOR offers competitive salaries commensurate with experience and education and a benefits package that includes flexible vacation time, group medical, dental and vision plans, an employer‑sponsored 401K retirement plan, flexible hybrid work schedule, and a generous discounts and shoe gratis program. EEOC STATEMENT The Company is an Equal Opportunity Employer. The Company is committed to the principle of equal employment opportunity for all employees and to providing employees with a work environment free of discrimination and harassment. The Company is committed to creating an inclusive, safe work environment for all employees. All employment decisions at the Company are based on business needs, job requirements and individual qualifications, without regard to race, color, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, religion or belief, family or parental status, or any other status protected by the laws or regulations in the locations where we operate. The Company will not tolerate discrimination or harassment based on any of these characteristics. The Company encourages applicants of all ages. #J-18808-Ljbffr