Senior Operations Strategist – Footwear
Location: Los Angeles, CA
Job Type: Full-Time
Department: Operations
Reports To: CFO
Our client is an independent footwear company with a full stack infrastructure to design, develop, distribute and drive all go-to-market activity for global creatives in the sneaker/footwear space. Focusing on talent from the world of design, music, creative culture and sports, it is the first footwear business to offer world class creatives their own independently designed and owned footwear brands at scale. Their Los Angeles headquarters include a full design studio that works closely with our global manufacturing partner to build best in class footwear from lifestyle to performance, and an extensive marketing organization to drive all direct, channel and brand activity. The intent is to partner with creatives to build global brands in footwear.
Position Overview:
The Senior Operations Strategist for Footwear will be a key player in shaping and executing the strategic direction of our operations. This role will involve analyzing, refining, and optimizing the entire footwear supply chain—from sourcing and manufacturing to distribution and retail delivery. The ideal candidate will possess a deep understanding of the footwear industry, advanced analytical skills, and a proven ability to lead cross-functional teams toward operational excellence.
Key Responsibilities:
- Strategic Planning & Execution: Lead the development and execution of long-term operational strategies to enhance productivity, reduce costs, and improve quality throughout the footwear supply chain. Align operational goals with broader business objectives.
- Supply Chain Optimization: Collaborate with supply chain teams to streamline processes, reduce lead times, and improve forecasting and inventory management. Identify areas for cost reduction and efficiency improvements across the entire value chain.
- Manufacturing & Sourcing Strategy: Partner with the product development and sourcing teams to ensure manufacturing processes align with sustainability goals, product quality standards, and on-time delivery targets.
- Process Improvement: Identify and implement best practices for operational processes, using data-driven insights and methodologies (e.g., Lean, Six Sigma) to improve productivity, reduce waste, and enhance customer satisfaction.
- Cross-Functional Collaboration: Work closely with teams across marketing, product development, logistics, finance, and retail operations to ensure seamless execution of strategies and alignment of goals.
- Data Analysis & Reporting: Leverage key performance indicators (KPIs) and operational data to make informed decisions. Develop actionable insights and create regular reports for senior leadership on operational performance and strategic initiatives.
- Risk Management & Compliance: Proactively assess and manage risks related to operations, including supply chain disruptions, regulatory compliance, and product quality. Ensure adherence to industry standards and company policies.
- Team Leadership & Mentorship: Provide leadership, coaching, and development for junior team members. Foster a collaborative and high-performance team culture.
Qualifications:
- Education: Bachelor's degree in Business Administration, Supply Chain Management, Industrial Engineering, or a related field.
- Experience:
- Minimum 5 years of experience in operations strategy, supply chain management, or a related field, with at least 2 years in a senior leadership role within the footwear or consumer goods industry.
- Proven track record of developing and implementing successful operational strategies in a global or large-scale business.
- Extensive experience with footwear manufacturing processes, sourcing, and distribution channels.
- Skills:
- Strong analytical skills with the ability to work with large data sets and extract actionable insights.
- Proficiency in operations management software (e.g., SAP, Oracle, or similar ERP systems).
- Exceptional communication and interpersonal skills with the ability to influence and collaborate with cross-functional teams.
- Strategic thinker with a strong business acumen and ability to balance short-term needs with long-term goals.
- Preferred:
- Experience in sustainable manufacturing practices and supply chain sustainability in the footwear industry.
- Familiarity with retail and e-commerce operations in the footwear space.
- Multilingual abilities or international experience is a plus.
