Footwear Designer
Gardiner Bros and Company (leathers) Ltd · Stonehouse, England ·
Job Description Role: Footwear DesignerSalary: £45,000 per annumHours: Monday – Friday 8:30 – 17:00 (37.5 hours)Location: Stonehouse, GL10 3EZ (Hybrid – 1-2 days per week in the office)At Gardiner Bros, we believe how we treat people matters.
Starting as a small family run business in 1860, we've grown into a multi-million-pound partner to over 80 global brands, including Skechers, Crocs, Hush Puppies, Muck Boots along with our own brands Amblers Safety and Cotswold.
We are also proud to distribute to some of the UK's Largest Online, Highstreet, and Outdoor retailers – Next, John Lewis, Screwfix, Mole Valley, Cotswold Outdoors, Freemans, JD Williams, Very, and Littlewoods to name a few.
What will the Footwear Designer role entail? You will take ideas from initial concept through to approved samples, to create footwear that is relevant to consumers, aligned with brand direction and capable of driving growth.
Working closely with our brand development managers, merchandisers, footwear technician and international factory partners, you'll have the opportunity to influence collections across the full design and development processCreating concepts, CADs, colour palettes, product briefs and development packsTranslating trends, consumer insight and commercial requirements into compelling footwear rangesKeeping up to date with footwear trends, competitors, materials and product innovationWorking with factories and suppliers to develop products and resolve design or development challengesReviewing samples and providing feedback on materials, construction, fit, functionality and overall product qualityPresenting seasonal trends, collections and product stories to internal teams, customers and key stakeholdersAttending product reviews, supplier meetings, trade shows and customer appointments when requiredCollaborating with different departments across the business to delivery successful collectionsWhat are we looking for in a Footwear Designer?
We are looking for someone who is creative, commercially minded and passionate about footwear, to join our buying and merchandising team and play a key role in creating and developing commercially successful footwear collections across our portfolio of brands, focusing on Hush Puppies, Base London, Frye and Sperry.
Previous experience in footwear design or product developmentStrong CAD, sketching and presentation skillsA good understanding of footwear construction, materials and manufacturingStrong communication and presentation skills, with confidence presenting concepts and collectionsExcellent organisation and attention to detailA collaborative, flexible and hands on approachWhy Join us?25 Days annual leave entitlementEnhanced maternity and paternity leaveGenerous staff discounts on all brands we supplyLife Assurance & Company PensionLocal Gym Membership DiscountFree Mortgage advice & £0 Broker FeeEyecare VouchersWe are committed to building a diverse and inclusive workplace where everyone feels valued and supported.
We welcome applications from people of all backgrounds, experiences, and perspectives. If you need any adjustments during the recruitment process, please let us know—we are happy to help!