Footwear Product Developer
Laval, QC · On-site
We are currently looking for a Footwear Product Developer to join our Footwear/Bags/Wallets team ... Bring designs through the development stage to production ready products meeting design, fit ...
Footwear Product Developer
Laval, QC · On-site
We are currently looking for a Footwear Product Developer to join our Footwear/Bags/Wallets team ... Bring designs through the development stage to production ready products meeting design, fit ...
Footwear Product Developer
Laval, QC · On-site
We are currently looking for a Footwear Product Developer to join our Footwear/Bags/Wallets team ... Bring designs through the development stage to production ready products meeting design, fit ...
Footwear Product Developer
Laval, QC · On-site
We are currently looking for a Footwear Product Developer to join our Footwear/Bags/Wallets team ... Bring designs through the development stage to production ready products meeting design, fit ...
Bags Designer information
What does a bags designer do?
A Bags Designer is responsible for creating the concepts, designs, and prototypes for various types of bags, such as handbags, backpacks, or luggage. They research trends, select materials, and collaborate with manufacturers to bring their ideas to life. Bags Designers also consider functionality, durability, and aesthetics to meet consumer demands. Their work often involves sketching, digital design, and understanding production processes in the fashion or accessories industry.
What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a bags designer, and why are they important?
To thrive as a Bags Designer, you need strong skills in fashion design, material selection, and construction techniques, often supported by a degree in fashion design or a related field. Familiarity with design software like Adobe Illustrator, CAD programs, and knowledge of prototyping tools are typically required. Creativity, attention to detail, and effective communication are crucial soft skills that set top designers apart. These skills ensure that designs are both innovative and practical, meeting market demands and brand standards.
What are some common challenges faced by bags designers when developing new collections?
Bags designers often encounter challenges balancing creativity with functionality and manufacturability. Meeting brand standards, sourcing quality materials within budget constraints, and ensuring designs are both aesthetically appealing and practical for end users are key hurdles. Additionally, designers must stay ahead of market trends while managing tight production timelines and collaborating closely with pattern makers, manufacturers, and marketing teams. Adaptability and strong communication skills are crucial for overcoming these challenges and ensuring a successful product launch.
What is the difference between Bags Designer vs Bag Pattern Maker?
| Aspect | Bags Designer | Bag Pattern Maker |
|---|---|---|
| Primary Role | Conceptualizes and designs new bag styles and collections | Creates detailed patterns and templates for manufacturing bags based on designs |
| Skills & Credentials | Fashion design, creativity, knowledge of materials, CAD skills | Pattern drafting, sewing, technical skills, CAD for patterns |
| Work Environment | Design studios, fashion houses, brands | Manufacturing facilities, pattern workshops, sample rooms |
| Industry Usage | Designing innovative bags for brands and collections | Translating designs into production-ready patterns |
While Bags Designers focus on creating the visual and conceptual aspects of bags, Bag Pattern Makers turn those designs into precise patterns for manufacturing. Both roles are essential in the bag production process, with designers emphasizing creativity and pattern makers ensuring accurate production.
Footwear Product Developer
Laval, QC • On-site
Ardene
Full-time
Re-posted 14 days ago
Job description
Location Details: Head Quarters
PostalCode: H7X 4G8
Category: Corporate
Requisition Number: 20374-FOOT-04-13-26
Date Opened: April 13, 2026
Number of Openings: 1
Job Type: Permanent
Pay Class: Full Time
Education: Some College/Certification completed
Career Level: Experienced
Who We Are:
Hey, we're Ardene!
We're the ultimate destination in North America and beyond for head-to-toe apparel, footwear, and accessories - all at the best prices. In 1982, we started as an accessories and jewelry retailer. Today, we're on a whole new level, with 250+ stores in Canada, the USA and internationally - not to mention ardene.com and our app!
We believe that fashion shouldn't be exclusive or intimidating - it should be celebrated with youthful confidence and fearless enthusiasm. Our journey is ongoing in this new era of retail, as we focus more than ever before on customer experience and sustainable practices.
We also take employee wellbeing and personal growth to heart. Our teams focus on driving initiatives in the area of mental health, diversity & inclusion, engagement and recognition. This includes our many mindfulness programs too, so our teams can create meaningful connections, lead with intention and kindness, and be their best selves at work and in their lives.
Want to learn more about Life at Ardene? Check out our careers site for the latest updates & read one-on-one personal interviews with team members from across Ardene.
https://ardenecorporate.com/life-at-ardene
Description:
WHO YOU ARE:
We are currently looking for a Footwear Product Developer to join our Footwear/Bags/Wallets team. Reporting to the Senior Manager, Footwear/Handbags and working closely with the team, you will be responsible for:
- Research latest trends, street style, and analyze runway shows, translating them to support the brand vision (WGSN, social media, competitors, etc.).
- Bring designs through the development stage to production ready products meeting design, fit, quality requirements and align with brand direction.
- Negotiate and review prices with manager to ensure FOB is reasonable vs design vs retail/vs other suppliers offers and meet margin targets.
- Communicate with suppliers, including follow-up on sample updates, preparing and sending out technical packages to vendors. Includes updating data systems and internal and external customers/suppliers as product changes in the development cycle.
- Review samples for accuracy of execution, fit, workmanship and function. Make tech pack updates, pattern adjustments, etc. to resolve any design/quality issues that arise during development and communicate changes to the factories for proper execution.
- Review issues with department manager and factories to evaluate and clarify issues.
- Track development process, managing all products to adhere to timelines & action calendar deadlines.
- Create product architecture and determine a development plan incorporating best sellers, keeps, updates and trends.
- Determine material standards.
- Analyze weekly sales results to ascertain if actions are required (ex: updates, repeats, fit issues, etc.). Communicate findings in weekly meetings to further enhance the collections.
- Conduct & present biweekly market competition analysis, monitor collections, quality and price points.
- Work with marketing for product alignment.
- Other duties as required
WHAT YOU'LL NEED:
- Completion of post-secondary education, with a degree/diploma in Graphic Design.
- Minimum of five (5) years of experience in a related role.
- Computer proficiency (Mac and PC format), with knowledge of Adobe Illustrator CS+, Adobe Photoshop CS+, Acrobat 6.
- Ability to font and image source.
- Ability to crop and make color corrections to images.
- Ability to work effectively in a high activity environment.
- Strong communication skills.
- Excellent organizational skills with a keen ability to multi-task.
- Willingness to take on new challenges.
- Positive, upbeat energy with ability to create fun working environment is a must.
GROW WITH US!
We're pretty proud to say that everything we do starts with our people - whether it's in-store or at the head office. From sales associates and store leadership; dedicated in-house apparel and design teams; marketing, brand, and digital experts; stylists, photographers, and graphic designers; all the way to store concept and operations. We do it all. Ardene is truly a creative hub that is second to none.
Be part of a fun, dynamic and energetic team! Join our team and begin your career at one of North America's top retail chains!
Ardene is an equal opportunity employer, and as such, does not discriminate in hiring or terms and conditions of employment on the basis of an individual's race, ancestry, color, place of origin, religion, gender, gender identity, citizenship, age, sexual orientation, disability, national origin, family status, marital status or any other characteristic protected by applicable laws. Accommodations for people with disabilities are available upon request for candidates taking part in all aspects of the selection process. Selection decisions are solely based on job-related factors.