Role: Head of Footwear Terms: Full Time Location: DD London HQ (Brixton) ABOUT US Since 2015, DUKE DEXTER has expanded from its London roots into a global community, working with athletes, musicians, artists, designers, photographers, and pioneers who do things differently — those who go against the grain. DD is now one of the fastest growing fashion brands in the UK. JOB OVERVIEW We are seeking a Head of Footwear to lead the full development cycle of our seasonal collections and new footwear silhouettes. This role is instrumental in driving new product design, collection planning, technical development, supplier management, and the end-to-end sample process. Working closely with the Head of Creative, you will ensure designs are executed to the highest standard, on time, and within budget. You must be a highly organized, detail-oriented individual who thrives in an entrepreneurial environment. The ideal candidate will have a minimum of 4 years in a similar footwear role and a passion for leading the development of premium footwear. KEY RESPONSIBILITIES Product Design, Development & Collection Planning Lead the design and development of two seasonal collections, capsules and special projects, ensuring assortment planning, budgets, and calendars align with business goals. Own the design, development and execution of new footwear silhouettes and product categories, ensuring innovation and brand consistency. Manage the creation of technical packs with precise specifications, materials, and construction details, ensuring seamless communication with factories. Oversee sample management, including fit and wear testing, ensuring designs translate accurately from concept to final production. Supplier & Factory Management Serve as the primary contact for footwear suppliers, maintaining strong relationships to drive quality, efficiency, and innovation. Proactively assess and develop our supplier base to ensure best price, quality, and alignment with Duke Dexter’s brand values. Conduct regular factory visits to oversee production, quality control, and resolve development challenges. Production & Critical Path Management Work with the COO & Ops Manager to set up and manage critical timelines for new styles and core replenishment orders. Use internal project management software to align all teams on key deadlines, ensuring timely product launches. Oversee the industrialization and production process, ensuring on-time delivery, compliance with sustainability standards, and extensive quality control. Manage the product development and production budget, including costing and margin analysis. ABOUT YOU 4 years of experience in a lead footwear design & development role, ideally within the premium or luxury fashion sector. Deep understanding of footwear construction, materials, and technical development. Highly proficient in Adobe Illustrator (for creating and managing tech packs). Strong grasp of Excel for WIP tracking, budgeting, and timeline management. Confident working autonomously while collaborating closely with internal teams and external suppliers. Excellent communication and presentation skills, able to clearly convey product concepts and requirements. A proactive problem-solver with an analytical mindset and strong attention to detail. Experience with inventory and product management systems is a plus. A relentless drive to thrive in a fast-paced environment, contributing to the growth of a rapidly expanding brand and becoming an integral part of the team. careersdukeanddexter.com