Product Development Associate, Footwear

About the company

Reformation is a mission-driven fashion brand focused on making sustainable style widely accessible. Founded in 2009, the company has earned recognition for its environmental progress and aims to become climate positive by 2025 and circular by 2030. It operates a global retail network with 50+ stores, runs its own sustainable factory in Los Angeles, and develops products across multiple categories while fostering an inclusive workplace where people can grow and contribute.

Role overview

The Product Development Associate, Footwear will support the development process for accessories, with a primary focus on footwear. This position is centered on keeping prototypes organized, maintaining bills of materials, ensuring tech packs are accurate, and supporting quality checks from sample stage through bulk production. The role works closely with Design, Merchandising, Sustainability, and supply-chain teams and reports to the Sr. Director of Product Development.

Work location and schedule

This position is based in New York City and follows an in-office schedule four days per week, with remote work on remaining days. Some weeks may require additional in-office presence depending on business needs.

Responsibilities

• Coordinate with the Design team to make sure tech packs are complete, accurate, and aligned with project timelines, including all materials and hardware details.
• Organize and monitor prototype progress through tracking tools and charts.
• Manage the physical sample library from the development stage through final approval.
• Keep SMS and production bills of materials current.
• Track samples in transit to and from factories, then unpack and check them in to confirm safe and timely arrival.
• Bring together feedback from Design, Merchandising, and Factory teams to improve each style and material direction.
• Support the Product Development Director and Design team by providing aesthetic feedback during every prototype round.
• Stay in regular contact with the Sustainable Material Team Lead to move work forward, solve issues, and protect product quality.
• Act as the primary contact for supply-chain partners and travel when needed.
• Help uphold Reformation’s quality standards during prototyping and throughout production.
• Review confirmation samples, material tests, and bulk production units to ensure they meet quality expectations.

Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree in Product Development is preferred, though not mandatory.
• Experience in development or product management is required.
• Strong understanding of handbag materials, construction methods, and manufacturing workflows.
• Excellent written and verbal communication, collaboration, and project management abilities.
• Bulgarian or Italian fluency would be an added advantage.
• Strong attention to detail and a genuine interest in innovation and quality.
• Comfort working in a fast-moving environment with strict deadlines.
• Awareness of sustainability practices and new trends in the accessories market.

Compensation

The expected base salary for this role is $60,000 to $75,000 per year, depending on experience, skills, qualifications, and internal pay equity. The position may also qualify for an annual discretionary bonus, subject to company performance, department goals, and individual contribution. Bonus eligibility and amounts are not guaranteed.

Benefits and perks

• Employer-sponsored medical, dental, and vision insurance for eligible employees, plus commuter benefits.
• Paid time off benefits, including vacation, sick leave, and company holidays for eligible employees.
• Retirement planning support, including access to ESG-aligned investment options.
• Opportunities to collaborate across offices in Los Angeles, New York City, London, and the global retail team.
• Fertility care support through Carrot, including up to $5,000 USD in reimbursement for related fertility expenses after one year of employment.
• Annual donations to community causes supported by employees.
• Clothing discount, culture events such as Ref Values week, and Volunteer Time Off.

Equal opportunity and application notes

Reformation is an equal opportunity employer and considers all qualified candidates without discrimination based on protected characteristics under applicable laws. Accommodation is available during the application or interview process for candidates who need support. The company also encourages people who may not meet every listed qualification to apply if they are excited about the role and committed to sustainable fashion.

Additional information

The brand highlights its sustainability-focused mission and encourages applicants interested in helping advance more responsible fashion. The posting also references broader recognition and resources related to sustainability and company updates.