Vice President, Product Development and Production

San Francisco, CA

At Rothy’s, we know there’s a better way to do business, and it starts by putting the planet and its people first. More than 200 million single-use plastic bottles and 715,000 pounds of ocean-bound marine plastic have been transformed into our signature thread, creating wardrobe staples that look just as good as they feel.

Striving for zero waste, we combine 3D knitting technology and handcrafted assembly to create machine washable styles that don’t compromise on comfort. From classic shoes to carry-everywhere bags, we create essentials for wherever you go.

At Rothy’s, building a sustainable future is at the heart of everything we do.

About the Role:

The Vice President, Production and Product Development will be responsible for leading our end-to-end product creation process, from concept through commercialization. This role ensures our products are developed and manufactured to the highest standards of quality. The Vice President will lead and develop a high-performing team, fostering a culture of accountability, innovation, and growth. Working collaboratively with Design, Merchandising, and Supply Chain, this leader will optimize processes, strengthen vendor partnerships, and deliver products that delight customers, achieve financial targets and fuel the company’s growth.

What you’ll do:

• Lead the end-to-end product creation process from concept through commercialization, ensuring product quality, consistent fit, and innovative solutions across all categories

• Build, develop, and inspire a high-performing Production & Product Development team, fostering collaboration, accountability, creativity, and continuous improvement

• Partner closely with Design, Merchandising, and Supply Chain to bring innovative product ideas to life while aligning on timelines, costs, and brand vision

• Drive rigorous product costing practices and evaluate the financial impact of product development decisions, ensuring alignment with margin targets and overall P&L goals

• Establish and refine processes, tools, and standards that enhance innovation, efficiency, and scalability

• Anticipate and resolve production challenges with creative problem-solving, ensuring on-time delivery and alignment with customer expectations

• Collaborate with sourcing to ensure vendors are delivering on quality, reliability, cost efficiency

• Monitor industry trends, new materials, and emerging technologies to strengthen product development capabilities and maintain competitive advantage

You have:

• 15+ years’ leadership experience in footwear/accessories product development and production roles with at least 5 years in a senior leadership role (Footwear or Textile Manufacturing a plus)

• Proven expertise in product quality assurance, fit standards, manufacturing excellence, and innovative product development practices

• Strong financial acumen with deep experience in costing, margin management, and understanding the impact of product development decisions on the P&L

• Track record of leading and developing teams in a fast-paced, growth-oriented environment with a focus on fostering creativity and innovation

• Deep understanding of global sourcing, vendor management, and production planning, with experience introducing new processes, technologies, or materials

• Exceptional cross-functional leadership skills with the ability to collaborate across Design, Merchandising, and Supply Chain to drive innovation

• Strategic thinker with strong operational execution skills, a passion for problem-solving, and a drive for continuous improvement

• Excellent communication, negotiation, and relationship-building skills

You are a leader who:

• Embraces possibility – sets bold goals, stays curious, and approaches challenges with optimism

• Obsesses over innovation – challenges the status quo, explores new ideas, and drives continuous improvement

• Makes the planet proud – makes responsible choices with long-term impact in mind, balancing business needs with environmental responsibility

• Leads through collaboration – values diverse perspectives, builds trust across teams, and stays focused on delivering high-quality results

• Customer obsessed – ensures products meet the highest standards of quality and consistent fit, always keeping the customer at the center

• People leadership – develops talent, builds high-performing teams, and fosters an inclusive, growth-oriented culture

• Entrepreneurial mindset & adaptability – thrives in a fast-moving environment, builds structure where needed, and remains resilient through change

• Innovative problem-solver – embraces experimentation, integrates creative thinking into daily operations, and turns challenges into opportunities

Our benefits:

• Generous paid time off

• 401k matching

• Comprehensive health plans for you and your family

• Supplemental mental health benefits

• Monthly wellness reimbursement

• Dog Friendly Offices

• Employee Discount Program!

Pay range:

$245,000 - $325,000 annually

Base pay is one part of the total rewards package that is provided to compensate and recognize employees for their work. This role may be eligible for additional discretionary bonuses/incentives, as well as a comprehensive benefits package.

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