Specialist, Sourcing Operations, Footwear
About your role:
You will support the monitoring of end-to-end production activities across your assigned portfolio of factories, ensuring alignment with VF’s quality standards, production timelines, and operational expectations. As the primary on-site liaison, you will perform structured and routine task to assist in real-time issue resolution, enforce adherence to SOP’s , lead continuous improvement initiatives and escalating any deviations.
This position requires frequent travel to factory sites across the designated locations. This role is ideal for a results-driven professional with strong production operational acumen and technical knowledge . Success in this position requires strong attention to detail, effective communication skills, and the ability to collaborate closely with both factory teams and internal stakeholders
Your responsibilities will include (but not limited):
- Assist in Risk Assessment (TD) and Pre-Production (T4) meetings by gathering data relevant data, identifying risks and recommending actions to safeguard product quality and performance, ensuring alignment with brand standards and industry best practices;
- Support QM team to drive factory adherence to SOPs and product specifications during mass production, maintaining quality, aesthetics, and performance approved standards.
- Track and report on core KPIs and timely escalations to ensure KPIs are consistently met or exceeded;
- Take full accountability for resolving daily production-related issues (e.g., material delays, low output) in close collaboration with VF functions and Factory partners.
- Work closely with VF and the factory planning team to validate factory production planning schedule to achieve OTP targets.
- Make real-time production decisions when required, including line balancing and automation recommendations.
- Assist in supervising production start-up for ”high-risk styles” in partnership with QM, to ensure products meet brand expectations for quality, aesthetics, and performance.
- Support the RSO (Responsible Sourcing Ops) team in verifying the completion of social/environmental compliance corrective action plans and assist in implementing VF’s environmental and social programs (e.g., Higg Index, WCD, LABS).
- Provide on-the-ground support for automation adoption and process changes.
- Prepare production reports and insights for management;
- Support the QA team in root cause analysis and CAP reviews for quality claims . Help monitor the implementation of CAP and report on progress
What we will be looking for in you:
- Knowledge of the product category within the scope of this role with proven experience - understanding of manufacturing processes, materials, and construction methods;
- Drive and passion to make a difference, presenting a growth mindset that role models positivity and curiosity;
- Product Development or Technical expertise will be an advantage.
Key Attributes:
- Embodies the highest level of personal and professional integrity and ethics.
- Passion for product and a consumer-first mindset;
- Able to manage complex and conflicting interpersonal interactions with others, solve problems, make decisions and work effectively under pressure.
- Possesses excellent organizational and analytical skills;
- Able to collaborate with peers and superiors while building relationships with individuals and organizations across the globe.
- Culturally sensitive and aware.
- Demonstrates a creative, energetic, and motivated spirit.
Desirable Qualifications & Competencies:
- Bachelor’s degree in Industrial Engineering, Supply Chain, Business, or related field. MBA is a plus;
- Minimum 2-3 years of experience in the field of production operations or technical roles;
- Experience working with overseas factories, and a multi-cultural factory management team;
- Proficient in Microsoft Office, PLM systems, and production planning tools.
- Fluent in English (written and Verbal) additional languages (Vietnamese, Khmer, Mandarin) are a plus.
- Willingness and ability to travel extensively within the region.