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FitIts important in the shoes we make and in the people we hire. We have a long tradition (100 + years!) of making the most comfortable work, outdoor and lifestyle footwear. Were poised for increased growth and were searching for some of the most talented professionals who will walk the exciting road with us. Its entrepreneurial spirit that started Red Wing Shoe Company and that same spirit spills out from our offices and facilities every day. We respect where we started and embrace new ideas that make us competitive in a global economy. We like to think outside the (shoe) box and value ideas and contributors that do the same. Is it time to try on something bigger where you`ll have some room to grow?

Try this on for size: Red Wing Shoe Company is looking for a VP of Innovation & Product Development to lead our centralized Product Development group by providing short and long term leadership and direction for all aspects of product innovation and shoe design. This individual will drive consistent practices for design and technology across all brands and business units and help establish Red Wing Shoe Company as the industry leader in innovative footwear.

ESSENTIAL DUTIES and RESPONSIBILITIES:

Strategy & Planning

• Design and execute a comprehensive R&D plan for the development of the Company`s full line of products.
• Achieve financial objectives relating to product and merchandising by forecasting requirements, preparing annual budgets and capital expenditures, scheduling expenditures, analyzing variances, and initiating corrective actions.
• Oversee project management of the Innovation and Product Development process and best practices are established, understood and maintained.

Technology/Product

• Develop standards and procedures for quality, inspection, testing and returns. Ensure that standards are being met and procedures followed.
• Present/communicate technical feature/benefit information to internal and external customers.
• Take a results-oriented approach that conveys a sense of urgency and drive for closure with the ability to execute and prioritize multiple, competing tasks and demands; ability to recognize and execute critical details and promote the practice of continuous improvement.
• Lead the product assortment from concept to delivery using identified product/consumer trends and competitive analysis, following the RWSC Quality Policy.

Manages Talent, Teams & Culture

• Provide leadership for planning, recruiting and managing a world class product development organization and successfully launch new innovation in RWSC footwear.
• Communicate and lead the product creation process to ensure all projects meet all key timelines and deadlines. Work to create a process where all projects are completed on time, are manufacturable, proven and tested, meet design intent as well as performance intent with profitable results. Utilize internal and external partnerships that leverage resources and enhance business effectiveness.
• Direct internal and external resources to design, develop, deliver, launch and service products as planned.
• Develop clear goals and performance expectations with staff that align with corporate/business unit goals.
• Support employees in achieving goals by continually assessing staffs performance, coaching, providing resources, removing barriers, and dealing promptly with performance issues.
• Create and maintain a positive work environment by effectively communicating, managing through change and conflict, and identifying behaviors that negatively impact results and/or morale.
• Actively recognize and reward behaviors/results that meet or exceed defined performance expectations.
• Ensure an adequate supply of qualified talent exists by identifying critical positions, high potentials, and provide learning and development plans to bridge the talent gaps.
• Ensure the best talent is selected for positions and diligently on-board candidates to effectively leverage his/her expertise and contribution.
• Provide functional leadership as an integral member of the Supply Chain Leadership team.

EDUCATION and EXPERIENCE

• Bachelors degree in engineering/science, design, or business
• Minimum of ten (10+) years of relevant product development leadership. Must have a strong track record in the development and management of teams with demonstrated, successful results.
• Minimum of seven (7) years experience of managing professional level talent with increasing levels of responsibility within an R&D organization including developing and managing R&D strategic and operating plans and budgets, and building/recruiting a team.
• Experience managing collaborative relationships and strategic alliances with business units, key suppliers, and partners.
• Experience working with global markets and multiple foreign cultures.

ADDITIONAL DESIRABLE QUALIFICATIONS

• Superior oral and written communication skills along with the ability and tenacity to move major initiatives forward with a focused effort and clear set of business goals.
• Knowledge of footwear manufacturing
• Active participation in footwear/apparel industry associations and R & D groups.

Red Wing Shoe Company will not be using recruitment agencies or firms to fill this position and we will not accept unsolicited resumes or candidate information. No agency calls please.