Senior Specialist, Sourcing Operations - Footwear

ABOUT THE ROLE
We are looking for a Senior Specialist in Sourcing Operations to oversee end-to-end production activities across a portfolio of factories. This role ensures alignment with VF’s quality standards, production timelines, and operational expectations. You will play a key role in real-time issue resolution, SOP adherence, and continuous improvement initiatives.

As a mentor to junior specialists and a key interface with factory management, you will need strong production operational acumen, technical knowledge, attention to detail, and effective communication skills. This position involves frequent travel to factory sites across designated locations.

KEY RESPONSIBILITIES

• Coach and mentor Production Specialists and factory personnel, sharing technical knowledge and best practices
• Contribute to Risk Assessment (TD) and Pre-Production (T4) meetings by identifying risks and recommending actions
• Support Quality Management (QM) team to ensure factory adherence to SOPs and product specifications during mass production
• Ensure core KPIs are consistently met or exceeded
• Collaborate with VF and factory planning teams to validate production schedules and achieve OTP targets
• Make real-time production decisions, including line balancing and automation recommendations
• Supervise production start-up for high-risk styles in partnership with QM
• Resolve daily production-related issues (e.g., material delays, low output) in collaboration with VF and factory partners
• Support Responsible Sourcing Operations (RSO) team in verifying social/environmental compliance and implementing VF 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
• Use data analytics to improve factory performance and efficiency
• Participate in root cause analysis and CAP reviews for quality claims with QM team
• Facilitate CAP implementation and ensure effectiveness of corrective actions

WHAT WE’RE LOOKING FOR

• Strong knowledge of product category and manufacturing processes, materials, and construction methods
• Growth mindset with drive and passion to make a difference
• Product development or technical expertise is an advantage

KEY ATTRIBUTES

• High level of personal and professional integrity and ethics
• Passion for product and a consumer-first mindset
• Ability to manage complex interpersonal interactions, solve problems, and work under pressure
• Excellent organizational and analytical skills
• Strong collaboration and relationship-building skills across global teams
• Cultural sensitivity and awareness
• Creative, energetic, and motivated spirit

QUALIFICATIONS & COMPETENCIES

• Bachelor’s degree in Industrial Engineering, Supply Chain, Business, or related field (MBA is a plus)
• 4–6 years of experience in production operations or technical roles
• Experience working with overseas factories and multicultural factory management teams
• Proficiency 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

R-20250720-0009