Sr. Director of Product Development and Merchandising - Technical Performance at Skechers

Manhattan Beach, California, United States

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Not SpecifiedCompensation

Senior (5 to 8 years), Expert & Leadership (9+ years)Experience Level

Full TimeJob Type

UnknownVisa

Footwear, Sporting GoodsIndustries

Requirements

College degree, preferably in business/marketing
10+ years in footwear product management and category leadership, with emphasis on performance-driven categories
Strong running footwear background preferred
Deep understanding of the running consumer and market
Advanced analytical skills with strong business acumen
Proven track record of delivering pinnacle running footwear solutions that drove measurable business growth (category expansion, margin improvement, or market share gains)
Experience garnering athlete insights and turning them into actionable product briefs
Demonstrated success in scaling performance product lines from concept to market
Strong merchandising background
Strong leadership IQ with proven ability to lead, galvanize, and inspire high-performing teams
Exceptional presentation and communication skills, both written and verbal
Ability to work independently with limited supervision
Ability to lead initiatives with flexibility to adapt and pivot quickly
Team-first approach
Able to work extra hours as needed
Ability to travel as needed

Responsibilities

Lead the strategy and execution of Skechers’ Technical Performance Footwear division, primarily Technical Running footwear and other technical performance sport categories
Translate sport, trend, and consumer insights into strategy, defining category vision and product priorities
Drive category growth through cross-functional partnership with design, marketing, and sales
Build, balance, and position a performance product line that meets both consumer demand and business objectives
Oversee the performance footwear development process from concept to market, ensuring alignment with KPIs (margin, sell-through, category growth, consumer satisfaction)
Balance innovation and commercial viability, working with Product Management to deliver margin requirements, market readiness, and long-term brand positioning
Lead and mentor direct reports on the Product Management team (Product Managers, Sample Coordinator), providing strategic direction, professional development, and clear prioritization
Analyze sales reports to ensure achievement of KPIs and optimize future line planning

Skills

Key technologies and capabilities for this role

Product StrategyMerchandisingFootwear DevelopmentRunning FootwearConsumer InsightsTrend AnalysisTeam LeadershipCross-functional CollaborationKPI ManagementSales AnalysisLine PlanningMargin ManagementMarket PositioningPresentation SkillsStakeholder Influence

Questions & Answers

Common questions about this position

What is the salary range for this position?

The pay range for this position is $225,000-$250,000.

Is this role remote or does it require office presence?

This information is not specified in the job description.

What experience and skills are required for this role?

Candidates need 10+ years in footwear product management and category leadership with emphasis on performance-driven categories, a strong running footwear background preferred, advanced analytical skills, strong business acumen, and excellent communication skills.

What leadership responsibilities does this role involve?

The role includes leading and mentoring direct reports on the Product Management team, supervising Sample Coordinator and Product Managers, and galvanizing high-performing teams with a focus on collaboration and accountability.

What makes a strong candidate for this position?

A strong candidate has a proven track record in delivering running footwear solutions that drove business growth, deep understanding of the running consumer and market, experience scaling performance product lines, and the ability to lead cross-functional teams with a team-first approach.