Skechers USA, Inc

Sr. Director, Product Development and Merchandising - Technical Performance

Skechers USA, Inc$225K — $250K *
Retail & Consumer Goods
8 - 10 years of experience
Job Overview by Ladders

Qualifications

  • College degree in business/marketing preferred
  • 10+ years in footwear product management and category leadership
  • Strong Technical Performance footwear background
  • Experience garnering athlete insights for product briefs
  • Demonstrated success in scaling performance product lines from concept to market

Responsibilities

  • Lead the strategy and execution of the Technical Performance Footwear division
  • Translate sport and consumer insights into innovative product strategies
  • Oversee performance footwear development from concept to market
  • Ensure commercial alignment with KPIs, margin requirements, and brand positioning
  • Foster collaboration and accountability within high-performing teams
  • Analyze sales reports to optimize line planning
  • Mentor direct reports, providing strategic direction and professional development

Benefits

  • Opportunities for professional development and mentorship
  • Inclusive and respectful work environment
  • Commitment to equal employment opportunities
  • Flexible working arrangements based on project demands
  • Exposure to diverse product categories that enhance career experience
Full Job Description
ABOUT THE ROLE:
Lead the strategy and execution of Skechers’ Technical Performance Footwear division, translating sport and consumer insights into innovative products that deliver unrivaled comfort and performance for consumers. Drive category growth through cross-functional partnership with design, marketing, and sales. This position will primarily be responsible for leading the strategy and development Technical Running footwear and will also lead other technical performance sport categories.

WHAT YOU'LL DO:

  • Proven track record of delivering pinnacle technical (Running, Soccer, Golf, Basketball etc.) performance footwear solutions that drove measurable business growth (category expansion, margin improvement, or market share gains).
  • Translate insights into strategy: Leverage sport, trend, and consumer data to define category vision and product priorities.
  • Strong merchandising background with the ability to build, balance, and position a performance product line that meets both consumer demand and business objectives.
  • Lead product creation: Oversee the performance footwear development process from concept to market, ensuring alignment with KPIs (margin, sell-through, category growth, consumer satisfaction).
  • Commercial alignment: Balance innovation and commercial viability, working with Product Management to deliver margin requirements, market readiness, and long-term brand positioning.
  • Proven ability to lead, galvanize, and inspire high-performing teams with strong leadership IQ, fostering collaboration, accountability, and alignment to shared goals.
  • Lead and mentor direct reports on the Product Management team, providing strategic direction, professional development, and clear prioritization to ensure alignment with Technical Performance goals.
  • Exceptional presentation and communication skills, with the ability to effectively influence and inspire both internal stakeholders and external partners.
  • Analyze sales reports to ensure achievement of KPI’s and optimize future line planning.

WHAT YOU'LL BRING:

  • Deep understand of the sport (Running, Soccer, Golf etc.) consumer and market.
  • Advanced analytical skills with strong business acumen.
  • Ability to lead initiatives with flexibility to adapt and pivot quickly.
  • Capable of leading product development efforts and issues.
  • Team-first approach.
  • Excellent communication skills, both written and verbal.
  • Able to work extra hours as needed.
  • Ability to travel as needed.

REQUIREMENTS:

To perform this job successfully, an individual must be able to perform each essential duty satisfactorily.  The requirements listed below are representative of the knowledge, skill, and/or ability required.

  • College degree, preferably in business/marketing.
  • 10+ years in footwear product management and category leadership, with emphasis on performance-driven categories.
  • Strong Technical Performance footwear background preferred.
  • Experience garnering athlete insights and turning them into actionable product briefs.
  • Demonstrated success in scaling performance product lines from concept to market.

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

About Skechers USA, Inc

SKECHERS USA, Inc. designs, develops and markets more than 3,000 styles for men, women and children. SKECHERS' success stems from its employees, high-quality, varied product offering, diversified domestic and international distribution channels, and targeted multi-channel marketing.

Skechers USA, Inc Careers

Join the vibrant team at Skechers USA, Inc, a global leader in lifestyle and performance footwear, where your career journey is as dynamic as the styles we create. As part of our diverse team, you'll engage in an environment that fosters innovation, leadership, and professional growth. Work You’ll Do At Skechers, we are committed to making every step a journey of growth. Dive into a range of job opportunities that span across various departments—from marketing to sales, and product development to finance. Each position offers a chance to enhance your skills and advance your career in a global company known for its commitment to innovation and quality. Join Skechers’ market-leading team to help redefine comfort and style in footwear across the world. Our team at Skechers is at the forefront of design and technology, constantly pushing the boundaries to deliver the best in footwear. Transform Your Career Lead with confidence and creativity. Skechers empowers you to take your career to new heights with leadership opportunities that encourage you to innovate and lead projects that transform the industry. Our culture is all about embracing change and making an impact. Work alongside a global team of professionals who are as passionate about footwear as they are about making a difference. At Skechers, you’ll collaborate with talented individuals who bring diverse perspectives and skills to every project. Innovative Work Environment Step into a role within Skechers and join a team where innovation meets action. Our employees are equipped with the tools and freedom to deliver groundbreaking solutions on a global scale, enhancing our company's reputation as a leader in the footwear industry. Be Part of a Great Team Experience the benefits of working in a supportive and inclusive culture. Skechers values diversity and is dedicated to providing a workplace where everyone can thrive. Our team is our family, and we support each other’s professional and personal growth through comprehensive training and development programs. Future-Proof Your Career With Skechers, your future is bright. Our commitment to your career is shown through unmatched training, diverse employment opportunities, and a clear path to advancement. Whether you’re seeking a full-time position, an internship, or leadership roles, Skechers provides the resources to achieve your career aspirations. Explore Job Opportunities Discover the wide array of employment options at Skechers, from in-store retail positions to corporate roles that shape the future of our company. Each role offers a unique opportunity to contribute to our success while advancing your own professional skills. Stay Connected Join Our Team Search open positions that match your skills and interests. We look for passionate, curious, creative, and solution-driven team players. Start your journey with Skechers today and transform your passion for footwear into a rewarding career. SEARCH SKECHERS JOBS Keep Up to Date Stay ahead with career tips, insider perspectives, and industry-leading insights you can put to use today—all from the people who work here. READ CAREERS BLOG Job Alert Emails Personalize your subscription to receive job alerts, latest news, and insider tips tailored to your preferences. Explore the exciting and rewarding opportunities that await at Skechers USA, Inc.
Learn more about Skechers USA, Inc
Size
6,200 employees
Market Cap
$6.6 billion
Industry
Net Income
$98.5 million
Founded
1992
5 Year Trend
+12%
Revenue
$4.5 billion
NASDAQ

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