A footwear sourcing manager is responsible for identifying, negotiating, and managing suppliers to ensure the timely and cost-effective procurement of materials, components, and finished footwear products. They play a critical role in supply chain management, cost optimization, and quality control, working closely with designers, developers, and manufacturers to bring footwear collections to market.

Research and evaluate factories, material suppliers, and component vendors globally.
Build long-term relationships with trusted manufacturers and material suppliers.
Negotiate pricing, lead times, and production capacities to meet brand needs.

Identify the best leathers, textiles, foams, rubbers, and synthetic materials for performance and cost-efficiency.
Ensure materials meet brand standards, regulatory requirements, and sustainability goals.
Work with suppliers to develop and test new materials for innovation.

Establish cost targets for footwear production and ensure pricing aligns with profit margins.
Optimize material costs, labor expenses, and logistics fees without compromising quality.
Manage supplier contracts, ensuring competitive pricing and stable production agreements.

Oversee factory production schedules to meet deadlines and avoid delays.
Monitor raw material availability and inventory levels to prevent supply chain disruptions.
Coordinate with logistics teams for shipping, import/export compliance, and warehouse management.

Ensure suppliers meet brand quality standards, ethical sourcing policies, and environmental regulations.
Conduct factory audits and site visits to assess working conditions and compliance.
Troubleshoot quality issues, ensuring production runs meet specifications.

Implement strategies for sustainable sourcing (e.g., recycled materials, bio-based alternatives).
Ensure adherence to fair labor practices, environmental impact reduction, and responsible sourcing initiatives.
Collaborate with certification bodies (e.g., Bluesign, Leather Working Group, Fair Trade) to maintain compliance.

Footwear Designer: Creates the product concept and aesthetics.
Footwear Developer: Focuses on sample refinement and manufacturability.
Footwear Engineer: Works on performance, biomechanics, and construction innovation.
Footwear Sourcing Manager: Finds, negotiates, and manages suppliers to ensure quality, cost, and delivery efficiency.

Footwear Engineer