Raw Materials Specialist

At Designer Brands, we are the proud parent company of DSW Designer Shoe Warehouse, The Shoe Company, and Rubino, operating nearly 675 stores across North America and a billion‑dollar digital commerce business. We lead the footwear industry with a diverse portfolio of iconic brands, including Topo Athletic, Keds, Vince Camuto, Kelly & Katie, Jessica Simpson, Lucky Brand, Mix No. 6, Crown Vintage, and others.

With expertise in design, production, and sourcing, we create on‑trend footwear and accessories, delivered through a robust omnichannel infrastructure and national wholesale distribution. At Designer Brands, we are committed to fostering a culture of collaboration, innovation, and inclusivity, where each employee’s unique perspective contributes to our success. Anchored by our core values of “We Love What We Do,” “We Own What We Do,” “We Do What’s Right,” and “We Belong,” we continuously drive forward together, building a future where everyone can put their best foot forward.

The Opportunity

As a Raw Materials Specialist, you will play a hands‑on role in shaping how our ideas come to life through leather and materials. You will connect design vision with real‑world execution, helping translate creativity into materials that our partners can bring to life at scale.

You will work closely with design, sourcing, and vendor partners across regions to move ideas from concept to reality. This is a highly collaborative role where your knowledge of materials, curiosity, and ability to problem‑solve will directly impact the product we create and how we bring it to market.

This role reports to the Director of Raw Materials and sits at the intersection of design, innovation, and global sourcing.

What you’ll be doing

Bring design ideas to life through materials

• Partner with design teams to explore new ideas, materials, and innovations
• Translate design concepts into clear, actionable direction for sourcing teams and vendor partners
• Recommend creative solutions when design requests fall outside existing sourcing or cost frameworks
• Ensure material choices align with brand direction and seasonal storytelling

Lead and support material research and development

• Support ongoing leather and materials research to drive innovation and improvement
• Stay informed on emerging trends, sustainability, and new developments through industry events and shows
• Build and maintain a resource library of materials for seasonal inspiration and long‑term reference

Collaborate across teams and regions

• Work closely with design and sourcing teams to align on development and allocation strategies
• Partner with regional sourcing teams to ensure materials capabilities match product needs
• Contribute to building and maintaining a strong portfolio of vendor partners across regions
• Help strengthen relationships with material vendors to expand access to relevant materials and innovations

Support execution and delivery

• Help ensure key development milestones and timelines are met
• Create and manage material trackers, including cost and development status
• Support sample development, including evaluating hand‑feel, finishing, and construction
• Use technical expertise to balance design intent with cost requirements and feasibility

Advance digital and operational processes

• Partner with sourcing teams to support material and trim digitalization across vendors
• Help maintain consistency between design and sourcing throughout development

What you’ll need

Experience and background

• 5 or more years of experience in leather and materials research and development
• Bachelor’s degree in Textile, Fashion Design, or a related field, or equivalent work experience

Technical knowledge

• Strong understanding of leather, materials, construction methods, and finishing techniques
• Familiarity with product development and production processes, preferably in footwear

Skills and capabilities

• Strong attention to detail and ability to manage multiple priorities
• Clear communication skills, both written and verbal
• Strong organizational skills with the ability to maintain accurate data
• Analytical mindset with the ability to evaluate options and make informed decisions
• Ability to collaborate across teams and build…