Product Technologist: Footwear at Ackermans

We're looking for a passionate Footwear Product Technologist who loves shoes as much as we do! Someone who is driven to deliver great value and exciting new products to our customers.
In this role, you'll bring technical expertise to our footwear range - supporting product development, elevating quality, and ensuring every pair meets our standards while aligning to our product strategy.


Key Responsibilities


Work closely with Buying, Trend & Design and Sourcing teams to continuously improve product performance, consistency and cost efficiency - ensuring we deliver the right product, at the right quality, at the right price for our Customers
To research, source and develop new and existing Footwear Products in accordance with Company strategy
To accurately assess products against company standards and specifications in accordance with the critical path to ensure consistent compliance across all departments and suppliers
To maintain, communicate and issue standards and product specifications
To review and provide insights regarding necessary product specification adjustments in accordance with Company strategy.


Skills & Knowledge Required


Strong problem-solving and decision-making skills, with the ability to resolve technical product and production challenges
Ability to clearly communicate technical requirements to suppliers and translate complex technical information into practical insights for non-technical stakeholders
Confident in representing the business in engagements with suppliers, manufacturers and internal stakeholders
High level of accuracy and attention to detail, particularly when reviewing specifications, samples and production outputs
Strong analytical capability, with the ability to interpret test results, identify trends and drive continuous product improvement
Effective planning, organising and time management skills to manage multiple product cycles and critical path deadlines
Well-developed interpersonal, networking and relationship-building skills, particularly within a supplier and manufacturing environment
Excellent command of the English language, both written and verbal, with strong report-writing capability


Technical Knowledge


Sound understanding of footwear supplier bases and manufacturing capabilities
Knowledge of relevant legislation and compliance requirements (e.g. Country of Origin Labelling)
Familiarity with South African Bureau of Standards (SABS) standards and testing requirements applicable to footwear
Understanding of product technology SOPs, quality standards and best practices across footwear construction and production
Ability to apply technical knowledge to support product development, improve quality and ensure consistency across footwear ranges


Qualifications Required

Essential:



Grade 12 Certificate/Matric



Preferred:


National Diploma in Clothing or Fashion design / Clothing Management OR
Bachelor Degree in Consumer Science (with specialisation in Clothing Management), OR Other Relevant Tertiary Qualification


Experience Required


3-5 years retail experience in Product Technology with broad exposure to Footwear
OR, 3-5 years manufacturing experience in a Footwear environment