About the Role
The Director/Senior Director of Footwear Development will lead, manage, and execute the footwear development process, utilizing advanced product and process knowledge. This position will work with a cross-functional product creation team from the collection of insights to the delivery of products that exceed consumer expectations. This person is responsible for achieving results within the specified calendar and budget constraints, ensuring projects meet quality expectations, are delivered on time, and meet company financial margin targets.
You’ll Make a Difference By
- Leading the product creation process by managing both internal and external resources, in conjunction with vendor/factory resources, to meet execution timelines for new and inline products from concepts through approval of pre-production samples; drive product development timelines to ensure calendar deliverables and dates meet target schedule
- Reviewing and approving all tooling (blueprints) on a seasonal basis. Recommend, review, and approve all compounds on all components to ensure products meet end use requirements, pass all relevant testing, and meet global test standards
- Leading the drive towards automation, efficiencies, value engineering, design for manufacturing in partnership with Product Creation team, while maintaining Ariat’s best in class quality standards
- Standardizing fit and utilization of proven fitting back part on new lasts, allowing for different footwear types and constructions. Manage digital and physical last library on a global basis
- Leading the innovation agenda and transition to inline new product development, establish the requirement of new machine and technology capability requirements if necessary and influence the product sourcing decision
- Managing the Product Development team: training and development, talent assessment, coaching and mentoring to develop the talent and elevate the team capacity and build on the positive and inclusive working environment to support the long term business needs
- Collaborating though daily e-mails, video conferences, and regular factory visits with our overseas partners and Ariat offices to assure quality and on time delivery of prototypes and sampling through production.
- Collaborating with Design, Engineering, Merchandise, Material and Costing team to achieve product performance integrity through product testing (physical and field testing), product is engineered properly, FOB price meet targets, sample size fitting and visual is approved
- Traveling to overseas manufacturing facilities with TRIAD team 2 – 3 times per year to review Pullovers and manage problem solving of seasonal development
- Giving direct reports proper guidance on their projects, meeting their calendar milestones, and utilizing systems, while keeping them “on track” in terms of their professional development
About You
- Bachelor’s Degree in Engineering, Design, Biomechanics or related field, MBA or Master is a plus
- 10+ successful years of experience leading the development of high-performance footwear projects; minimum of 5 years as a leader of people
- A complete knowledge of footwear development, construction and production, comprehensive knowledge of lasts, molds, and patterns (and grading standards)
- Technical expertise in footwear product development, process, project management, costing and manufacturing of product from conception to retail
- Demonstrated success leading, developing, and motivating high performing teams
- Strong verbal and written communication skills, with an advanced ability to communicate new ideas, concepts and functional expertise within project teams and to external stakeholders
- Ability to build strong and effective cross-functional relationships
- Availability to travel internationally
- Attention to detail, follow-through and organization skills are critical
- Proficient in Microsoft Word, Excel, and PLM systems
- Embrace and live Ariat values!
About Ariat
Ariat is an innovative, outdoor global brand with roots in equestrian performance. We develop high quality footwear and apparel for people who ride, work, and play outdoors, and care about performance, quality, comfort, and style.
The salary range for this position is $130,000 – $140,000 per year.
The salary is determined by the education, experience, knowledge, skills, and abilities of the applicant, internal equity, and alignment with market data for geographic locations. Ariat in good faith believes that this posted compensation range is accurate for this role at this location at the time of this posting. This range may be modified in the future.
Ariat’s holistic benefits package for full-time team members includes (but is not limited to):
- Medical, dental, vision, and life insurance options
- Expanded wellness and mental health benefits
- Paid time off (PTO), paid holidays, and paid volunteer days
- 401(k) with company match
- Bonus incentive plans
- Team member discount on Ariat merchandise
Note: Availability of benefits may be subject to location & employment type and may have certain eligibility requirements. Ariat reserves the right to alter these benefits in whole or in part at any time without advance notice.
Ariat International
Related jobs:
Job Description
A documentary series is seeking a local sound engineer for a full-day shoot during an indie production tied to Essence Fest. The series highlights the journey of four men navigating the high-stakes world of music promotion, showcasing the raw highs, lows, and behind-the-scenes moments with some of the industry’s top artists. The content will be both emotionally resonant and technically engaging, requiring strong sound capture for intimate and dynamic scenes.
Job Responsibilities
-
Provide professional on-location audio recording for full-day shoot
-
Capture clean, balanced sound across multiple speakers in varied environments
-
Set up and manage multiple microphones (lav and boom) for interviews and b-roll
-
Collaborate with directors and producers to ensure optimal audio quality
-
Troubleshoot audio issues in real-time during the shoot
Requirements
-
Must be based in or able to work locally in New Orleans
-
Own equipment required: boom mic, minimum 4 lavalier mics, mixer, recorder
-
Prior experience with documentary or reality-style production preferred
-
Strong communication and teamwork skills
-
Punctual and prepared for a full 9am call time
Compensation
-
$600 for a full-day shoot
-
Independent contract opportunity with potential for future collaborations
Boom Operator for Cosmic Horror Student Film
Job Description
A student film production is seeking a Boom Operator for a three-day shoot on a cosmic horror short film. The project aims to create an unsettling, atmospheric experience and will require a sound technician comfortable working in an eerie, story-driven setting. All professional sound equipment will be provided on set.
Job Responsibilities
-
Operate boom microphone and manage sound equipment during filming
-
Collaborate with the director and sound team to ensure audio clarity
-
Monitor environmental sound and adjust mic placement accordingly
-
Ensure clean dialogue capture in both indoor and outdoor settings
Requirements
-
Experience with boom operation on film sets (student or professional)
-
Ability to work efficiently in a fast-paced, collaborative environment
-
Strong understanding of on-set audio workflow
-
Open to working on a student project with limited resources
Compensation
-
Rate negotiable based on experience
-
This is a low-budget student film; flexibility appreciated
-
All necessary equipment will be supplied
Job Description:
An exciting opportunity for experienced film professionals to join a fast-paced production shooting in Atlanta this July. We’re building a full crew across all departments for a 25-page project filming over 5-6 days. This is a professional production offering competitive rates for qualified crew members.
Positions Available:
-
Camera Department (DP, Operators, ACs)
-
Grip & Electric (Gaffers, Best Boys, Technicians)
-
Sound Mixers & Boom Operators
-
Art Department (Production Designers, Set Decorators)
-
Hair/Makeup Artists
-
Production Assistants
-
Other key crew positions
Job Responsibilities:
-
Execute department-specific duties professionally
-
Work efficiently under tight production schedule
-
Collaborate with other departments
-
Maintain safety standards on set
Requirements:
-
2+ years professional experience in your department
-
Full availability July 15-21 in Atlanta
-
Own necessary equipment/kits (where applicable)
-
Strong references from previous productions
Compensation & Benefits:
-
Competitive daily rates (based on position/experience)
-
Meals provided during shoot days
-
Professional working environment
-
IMDb credit
Job Description:
A new set of three non-union scripted short series is now hiring Production Interns to join a growing, motivated team. This is a non-paid internship offering IMDb credit and craft services, ideal for emerging creatives seeking on-set experience and real industry exposure. Interns will contribute to various departments and support production from pre-production through wrap.
Job Responsibilities:
-
Assist core departments on set and during prep
-
Support day-to-day production needs based on assigned role
-
Collaborate with team members and respond to direction from department leads
-
Gain hands-on experience in film and TV production workflow
Open Internship Positions:
-
Casting
-
Locations Manager
-
Wardrobe / Costume
-
Script Supervisor
-
Production Assistant
-
Crafty PA
Requirements:
-
Set experience preferred but not required
-
Must be dependable, enthusiastic, and a team player
-
Eagerness to learn and contribute to a fast-paced production
-
Must be local or able to work where production is based
Compensation:
-
Unpaid
-
IMDb credit provided
-
Craft services included
Job Description:
A new indie thriller set between 1940–1970 is now hiring a full production crew in Atlanta. This period film is seeking skilled creatives and behind-the-scenes professionals to join a passionate filmmaking team. If you’re a film graduate or seasoned indie crew member, this is your chance to gain credits, contribute to an exciting historical project, and work with a driven director on a full-length feature.
Job Responsibilities:
-
Collaborate with the director to bring a scripted thriller period piece to life
-
Contribute to pre-production, on-set, and post-production phases
-
Help maintain historical authenticity in visuals, sound, and wardrobe
-
Commit to project timelines and deliver high-quality creative work
Open Positions:
-
Cinematographer
-
Producer
-
Sound Audio Technician
-
Production Assistant
-
Production Designer
-
Film (CGI) Editor
-
Costume Designer
-
Gaffer/Grip
-
Post-Marketing Specialist
Requirements:
-
Based in or able to work in Atlanta, GA
-
Demonstrated experience in your respective field or strong portfolio (film grads welcome)
-
Collaborative mindset and passion for independent filmmaking
Compensation:
-
Paid positions
-
Credit included
-
Meals and transportation provided (up to $150)
Job Description
Prominent Productions is now staffing for a feature film shooting in Los Angeles with a 20-day schedule and prep beginning in late August. The production team is seeking experienced crew members across multiple departments. This is a fantastic opportunity for LA-based professionals to join a dynamic film set and contribute to a high-energy production.
Job Responsibilities
• Support various departments across pre-production and production phases
• Collaborate with directors, producers, and crew to ensure smooth set operations
• Maintain professionalism and adaptability in a fast-paced film environment
• Execute tasks specific to your crew role (e.g., sound, catering, lighting, makeup, etc.)
Requirements
• Must be based in Los Angeles
• Must submit a resume with position specified in the subject line
• Positions needed include:
-
First AD
-
DIT
-
Catering
-
Locations
-
Craft Services
-
PAs
-
Hair and Makeup
-
Sound
-
Script Supervisors
-
Medics
-
Gaffers
-
Grips
• Experience in your role is highly preferred
Compensation
• Paid production opportunity
• Chance to build credits on a feature film
• Network with a professional production team
Model Recruiters for Fashion and Talent Agency
Job Description
A top-tier modeling agency is now hiring motivated Model Recruiters to scout new talent and connect with aspiring models in the Atlanta market and beyond. This is a remote-friendly, commission-based opportunity ideal for self-starters who are passionate about fashion, talent development, and building strong networks in the entertainment industry. If you’re looking for flexibility and income potential while expanding your footprint in the modeling world, this role is for you.
Job Responsibilities
- Identify and recruit potential modeling talent through online platforms and personal networks
- Build and maintain a pipeline of qualified candidates for agency representation
- Conduct initial outreach and guide talent through the application process
- Attend weekly calls and monthly virtual meetings for team updates and support
- Stay informed on trends in the modeling and entertainment industries
Requirements
- Must be 18 or older
- Familiarity with the fashion or modeling industry preferred
- Self-driven, organized, and results-oriented
- Smartphone and/or computer required for daily communication
- Able to work independently with minimal supervision
Compensation
- Commission-based pay structure with unlimited earning potential
- 90% remote flexibility
- Access to an established network within the Atlanta modeling market
- Ongoing mentorship and brand-building opportunities