Lead Product Developer - HOKA Footwear

At Deckers Brands, Together, Every Step is a promise kept that every employee can bring their authentic self, is valued and supported, as a whole person, at work and beyond. Together, Every Step is how we continue to deliver exceptional business results, experience an amazing place to work, and have a positive impact on the communities and world around us.


Job Title: Lead Product Developer - HOKA Footwear

Reports to: Sr. Product Development Manager - HOKA Footwear

Location: Portland, OR (Hybrid) - Typically 3 times per week in office, Tuesday - Thursday

The Role

As a Lead Product Developer - Footwear at Deckers Brands, you will be a key innovator and collaborator, driving the creation of exceptional footwear across multiple categories and consumer segments. You'll lead the product development process from concept to commercialization, ensuring every detail meets our high standards for quality, performance, and consumer satisfaction. Your expertise and leadership will help shape the future of our brands and inspire those around you.

We celebrate diversity--of your background, your experiences and your unique identity. We are committed to ensuring an inclusive and equitable workplace where all of our employees can Come as They Are. We believe that when we bring our different perspectives to work, we are truly Better Together.

Your Impact

• Manage the product creation process from initial brief and design through final prototyping and sales samples
• Problem-solve design tech packages for construction, material, fit & wear, or cost concerns before hand-off
• Generate and maintain accurate Bill of Materials (BOM) for all projects
• Review and evaluate project status with product creation and development teams, focusing on patterns, molds, materials, pricing, yield, cost analysis, manufacturing processes, and end-use performance
• Lead product teardowns of samples or competitor products to evaluate construction, comfort, or cast concerns
• Proactively identify issues and present solution options to teammates
• Provide PLMs/product design with alternatives in constructions, materials, costing, and duties
• Review technical drawings, lab tests, patterns, components, and lasts to identify and resolve issues
• Plan and execute development projects according to critical timelines and pre-planned dates
• Lead and facilitate timely creation, delivery, and approval of all relevant technical information
• Manage the evaluation of fit/wear and commercialization readiness, ensuring products are tested and proven for mass production
• Oversee sample delivery and timely approval of production confirmation samples for smooth commercialization
• Strive for continuous improvement by examining defective returns and proactively seeking new technologies
• Travel to development factories and trade shows as necessary
• Mentor and assist in training new team members, fostering a collaborative and inclusive environment

Who You Are

• Hold a Bachelor's degree or equivalent work experience
• Bring 8-10 years' experience in the footwear industry, with thorough experience in building product specifications
• Possess in-depth knowledge of material applications and product construction
• Have 1-2+ years' experience training new team members
• Proficient in Microsoft and Adobe applications
• Experienced with FlexPLM or similar systems
• Capable of using industry tools such as calipers, hardness gauge, tape measure, profile gauge, Brannock device, etc.
• Strong influencer, mentor, and collaborator with a passion for innovation and continuous improvement

What We'll Give You -

• Competitive Pay and Bonuses - We've created a variety of competitive compensation programs to foster career development, reward success and to show our employees just how much they're valued.
• Financial Planning and wellbeing - No matter what financial goals our employees have set, we want to help them get there. Our plans provide powerful ways to protect income, pay for expenses and invest in the future.
• Time away from work - Sometimes we need time away to be with family, focus on our health or just simply recharge. Our plans support our employees' needs to get out, get healthy and come back stronger than ever.
• Extras, discounts and perks - Being a valued member of the Deckers Brands team means more than just a paycheck. From generous discounts to community-based programs, we offer a variety of cool extras
• Growth and Development - Deckers Brands was built on the idea of pursuing passion. That's why we offer extensive opportunities and support for personal and professional development.
• Health and Wellness - There's nothing basic about our comprehensive health and wellness programs and offerings. While at work and at play, we aim to support a healthy lifestyle.

Individual pay will be determined by location and additional factors, including job related skills, experience, and relevant education or training. Your recruiter can share more about the specific salary for your preferred location during the hiring process.

Equal Employment Opportunity
Diversity and inclusion are key to our success. We are proud to be an equal opportunity employer, and our employees are people with different strengths, experiences and backgrounds who share a passion for our brands. We welcome qualified applicants regardless of their race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, national origin, age, military or veteran status, mental or physical disability, medical condition and all the other beautiful parts of your identity.