Footwear Production Manager Job Description [Updated for 2025]

In a world where fashion meets functionality, the focus on footwear production managers has never been greater.

As style evolves and technology advances, the demand for skilled professionals who can create, manage, and improve our footwear production processes grows.

But let’s delve deeper: What is truly expected from a footwear production manager?

Whether you are:

• A job seeker trying to understand the core of this role,
• A hiring manager outlining the perfect candidate,
• Or simply fascinated by the intricacies of footwear production,

You’ve come to the right place.

Today, we present a customizable footwear production manager job description template, designed for easy posting on job boards or career sites.

Let’s get started.

Footwear Production Manager Duties and Responsibilities

Footwear Production Managers oversee and coordinate various activities involved in the creation of footwear.

They play a crucial role in ensuring the smooth running of production lines, quality control, and meeting delivery deadlines.

The following are the duties and responsibilities of a Footwear Production Manager:

• Plan, schedule, and coordinate all aspects of footwear production, including raw material procurement, design, manufacturing, and delivery
• Supervise and manage the production team, including designers, machine operators, and manual workers
• Ensure that production meets quality standards and is completed within budget and on time
• Monitor production processes and make necessary improvements to increase efficiency
• Adhere to health and safety regulations in the workplace
• Coordinate with design and sales teams to ensure alignment with product specifications and customer expectations
• Train and mentor staff, fostering a positive work environment and encouraging continuous professional development
• Monitor and manage inventory of raw materials and finished products
• Resolve production issues and implement corrective actions when needed
• Collaborate with suppliers and negotiate contracts to secure the best prices for materials

 

Footwear Production Manager Job Description Template

Job Brief

We are looking for a highly organized and detail-oriented Footwear Production Manager to oversee all aspects of our footwear production line.

The Footwear Production Manager will be responsible for managing production schedules, overseeing the quality of the product, and ensuring delivery deadlines are met.

The ideal candidate will have previous experience in manufacturing or production, preferably in the footwear industry, and possess excellent leadership and project management skills.

Ultimately, the role of the Footwear Production Manager is to ensure that the production process runs smoothly and that all products meet our high-quality standards before they reach our customers.

 

Responsibilities

• Plan, coordinate and control manufacturing processes
• Ensure goods are produced efficiently and are of correct quantity and quality
• Monitor production plans to ensure timely delivery and compliance with standards
• Work with purchasing staff to establish quality requirements from external suppliers
• Review worker performance and identify training needs
• Implement and enforce quality control and tracking programs to meet quality objectives
• Make decisions about equipment use, maintenance, modification and procurement
• Manage the production budget and production costs
• Collaborate with design and marketing teams to implement business strategies
• Adhere to health and safety regulations

 

Qualifications

• Proven work experience as a Production Manager in the manufacturing sector, preferably in footwear
• Strong leadership and project management skills
• Knowledge of performance evaluation and budgeting concepts
• Experience in reporting on key production metrics
• Excellent organizational and problem-solving skills
• Proficient in MS Office and ERP software
• BSc/Ba in business administration or relevant field

 

Benefits

• 401(k)
• Health insurance
• Dental insurance
• Retirement plan
• Paid time off
• Professional development opportunities

 

Additional Information

• Job Title: Footwear Production Manager
• Work Environment: This is a full-time position requiring presence on the factory floor. Protective clothing and equipment may be required.
• Reporting Structure: Reports directly to the Director of Production.
• Salary: Salary is based upon candidate experience and qualifications, as well as market and business considerations.
• Pay Range: Depending on experience and qualifications
• Location: [City, State] (specify the location)
• Employment Type: Full-time
• Equal Opportunity Statement: We are an equal opportunity employer and value diversity at our company. We do not discriminate on the basis of race, religion, color, national origin, gender, sexual orientation, age, marital status, veteran status, or disability status.
• Application Instructions: Please submit your resume and a cover letter outlining your qualifications and experience to [email address or application portal].

 

What Does a Footwear Production Manager Do?

Footwear Production Managers typically work for footwear manufacturing companies.

Their primary responsibility is overseeing the entire process of footwear production, from conception to final product.

They work closely with footwear designers to understand the design concept and make sure it can be effectively manufactured within budget and time constraints.

Footwear Production Managers are responsible for creating a production schedule, coordinating with different departments such as purchasing, quality control, and logistics to ensure smooth production process.

They supervise the production staff, ensuring that they are adhering to safety standards and procedures, and that the product quality meets the company’s standards.

Footwear Production Managers also monitor the performance of production processes, identify areas of improvement, and implement changes to increase efficiency and reduce costs.

They are also involved in sourcing and managing suppliers, ensuring that all materials needed for production are available when needed.

In addition to managing production, they may also be responsible for training new employees, maintaining machinery, and solving any issues that may arise during the production process.

They work with the quality assurance team to ensure the final product meets the company’s quality standards and customer expectations.

They also work closely with the sales and marketing teams to understand market trends and customer needs.

 

Footwear Production Manager Qualifications and Skills

A proficient Footwear Production Manager should possess the skills and qualifications that align with your job description, such as:

• Extensive knowledge of footwear production and manufacturing processes to ensure the creation of high-quality products.
• Strong leadership and management skills to oversee and coordinate the work of the production team, ensuring efficient and timely completion of tasks.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills for effective coordination with different departments and to ensure clear instructions and feedback are given to the team.
• Problem-solving and decision-making skills to quickly identify and resolve production issues, ensuring minimal disruption to production timelines.
• Ability to use production planning and inventory management software, which aids in tracking material usage, scheduling production, and ensuring adequate stock levels.
• Proficiency in quality control to ensure that the products meet the set standards and specifications.
• Strong analytical skills to evaluate production metrics, identify trends, and implement necessary changes to improve productivity.
• Understanding of workplace safety regulations to ensure a safe and healthy environment for the team.

 

Footwear Production Manager Experience Requirements

Footwear Production Managers typically require a minimum of 3 to 5 years of experience in the footwear or manufacturing industry.

This experience often begins with roles such as Footwear Production Assistant or Footwear Quality Control Inspector.

In these entry-level positions, individuals gain a solid understanding of the production process, from design concept to finished product.

They learn how to manage resources, meet deadlines, and ensure the quality of footwear.

Mid-level positions may require 5 to 7 years of experience, often as a Footwear Production Supervisor or Lead.

In these roles, individuals gain management experience and learn how to oversee production schedules, manage teams, and coordinate with other departments.

Candidates for Footwear Production Manager positions are often required to have more than 7 years of experience, with a significant portion of this time in a leadership or managerial role.

They must have a deep understanding of the footwear production process, strong leadership skills, and a proven track record in meeting production targets and maintaining quality standards.

Experience in using production software and knowledge of lean manufacturing principles is also often required for this position.

 

Footwear Production Manager Education and Training Requirements

Footwear Production Managers typically have a bachelor’s degree in footwear design, manufacturing, production management or a related field.

They are expected to have a comprehensive knowledge of footwear materials, design principles and production processes.

An understanding of the latest technology and software used in the footwear industry, such as CAD (Computer Aided Design) systems, is also crucial.

Work experience in the footwear industry, particularly in production roles, is highly advantageous.

This allows them to gain practical understanding of the production processes, quality control, and supply chain management.

Some positions may require Footwear Production Managers to have a master’s degree in business administration or a related field, especially for roles with a strategic or overall business focus.

Continued professional development is important in this role.

This could be through attending industry-specific courses or seminars, or achieving professional certifications related to production management or footwear technology.

Moreover, having a master’s degree and/or relevant certification might demonstrate a candidate’s leadership potential and commitment to ongoing learning.

 

Footwear Production Manager Salary Expectations

A Footwear Production Manager can expect to earn an average salary of $73,000 (USD) per year.

However, the actual salary can vary significantly based on factors such as industry experience, level of responsibility, size of the company, and the geographic location of the job.

 

Footwear Production Manager Job Description FAQs

What skills does a Footwear Production Manager need?

Footwear Production Managers should possess strong leadership and communication skills to manage their team effectively and ensure smooth operations.

They should also have good analytical and problem-solving skills to troubleshoot production issues and improve efficiency.

Additionally, they should have a deep understanding of footwear production processes, materials, quality standards, and safety regulations.

 

Do Footwear Production Managers need a degree?

A bachelor’s degree in Production Management, Fashion, or a related field is typically required for this role.

However, extensive experience in footwear production, along with a proven record of managing teams, can sometimes compensate for the lack of formal education.

Some organizations may prefer candidates with an MBA or a related master’s degree.

 

What should you look for in a Footwear Production Manager resume?

When reviewing a Footwear Production Manager’s resume, look for a solid background in footwear production or manufacturing.

Prior experience in a leadership role is crucial, as this person will be responsible for managing a team.

Any specific accomplishments related to improving production efficiency or quality should also be highlighted.

In addition, familiarity with industry-specific software and technologies is a plus.

 

What qualities make a good Footwear Production Manager?

A good Footwear Production Manager is proactive, detail-oriented, and has a keen eye for quality.

They should be able to manage time effectively to meet production deadlines and have excellent leadership skills to motivate and guide their team.

They should also have strong decision-making abilities to solve problems quickly and effectively, ensuring production is not hindered.

 

Is it difficult to hire a Footwear Production Manager?

Hiring a competent Footwear Production Manager can be challenging, given the specific industry knowledge and leadership skills required for the role.

It can be helpful to look for candidates with a background in footwear production or similar manufacturing roles, as they are more likely to understand the intricacies of the job.

Offering competitive salaries, professional development opportunities, and a positive work environment can help attract the right candidates.

 

Conclusion

And there you have it.

Today, we’ve unraveled the intricacies of being a footwear production manager.

And guess what?

It’s not just about producing shoes.

It’s about shaping the fashion industry, one pair of footwear at a time.

With our definitive footwear production manager job description template and real-world examples, you’re all set to step forward.

But why stop there?

Stride further with our job description generator. It’s your next step to meticulously crafted listings or refining your resume to perfection.

Remember:

Every pair of footwear is a part of the larger fashion landscape.

Let’s shape that future. Together.

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