Designer-Footwear (Men's)

Company sells wholesale footwear under its Johnston & Murphy brand, the licensed Dockers brand, SureGrip, and other brands, and operates the Lids Team Sports team dealer business. For more information on Genesco and its operating divisions

This position is responsible for providing innovation ideas and execution of design related functions for footwear categories under the Johnston & Murphy brand. The designer works in collaboration with development team members to create products for assigned product categories on a worldwide basis. Initiates new and innovative product concepts to meet the needs of our customers through both wholesales and retail business units. Recommends and executes design modifications for new and carryover products resulting in sales and growth for the company.

* Collaborates with Product Development to created and develop products that meet product briefs, brand vision and target cost parameters, * Initiate sample requests, review prototypes, and direct modifications as needed throughout the development cycle. * Travel for consumer/product research. Provide design/concept boards to communicate design and color direction. * Present and participate in seasonal concept planning meetings and design presentations. * Participate in material research to define and source components on a seasonal basis. * Provide line art sketches for cross-functional support areas. * Create and assist in seasonal trend presentations. * Work with component suppliers in creating general material direction on a seasonal basis. * Provides design packages and technical drawings directly to manufacturing partners with coordination of developers. * Maintains goal of continuous product innovation and improvement. * Communicate daily with factory partners to track development status.

* Requires a Bachelor’s degree in a fashion design related field. * 3+ years of design experience within the footwear and leather goods categories. * Must possess broad knowledge of footwear and accessory design and development as well as thorough knowledge of general design processes from concept to commercialization. * Must have excellent skill level in freehand sketching, Adobe Illustrator and Photoshop. * Highly organized and able to adapt quickly in a fast paced work environment. * Effective communicator and team player able to work closely with cross functional areas in merchandising, marketing, and sourcing. * Highly creative with ability to recognize and translate current fashion trends into functional and commercial design. * Solid working knowledge of leather, textile, and footwear components. * Versatile problem-solving and decision-making skills. * Some travel required.