Developer FTW - Lifestyle Originals (m/f/d)

adidas is an equal opportunity employer and we are committed to fostering an inclusive workplace. We welcome applications from people of all ages, genders (incl. gender identity), ethnic and social backgrounds, nationalities, sexual orientations, religions and beliefs, and those with apparent or non-apparent disabilities*. We do not tolerate harassment or discrimination toward any of our applicants or employees.

• We actively encourage individuals with disabilities to apply and will provide reasonable accommodations throughout the recruitment process.

PURPOSE

We’ll never launch a product unless we consider it perfect. Our product development teams create every shirt, every shoe and every piece of equipment for thousands of athletes and fashion lovers as if it was one of a kind. And it truly is, as they weave their passion into every single product. But translating designs, drawings and renderings into real products requires a lot of decision making.

As Developer Footwear, you will (1) lead the end-to end development process for assigned low complexity products from concept brief to production readiness and (2) assist in driving the development of medium complexity products. You will work in strong partnership with footwear technicians, material experts as well as product management, design and suppliers.

KEY RESPONSIBILITIES

• Take accountability for the entire footwear development management process for assigned products, with an emphasis on quality, product engineering and timely completion of all tasks in accordance with the corporate operating calendar.
• Contribute ideas for product design, construction, materials, components by pro-actively working with suppliers to enhance performance, fit and profitability.
• Assist in providing technical solutions by analyzing designs for manufacturability, production and material properties, which address desired function, cosmetics and market appeal.
• Ensure products are engineered in accordance with cost targets and secure initial FOB cost quotes and follow-up price adjustments
• Ensure that all materials, processes, prototypes and development samples are fully tested to ensure adherence to adidas’s quality standards.
• Ensure accuracy, completeness, and timeliness of data by continuously updating the system.
• Responsible for achieving specific KPIs (e.g. margins, sustainability, on-time SMS delivery) for assigned articles/product.
• Continuously refresh your knowledge regarding latest technology trends in the field of footwear, engineering systems, prototyping possibilities, and footwear manufacturing.

KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS AND ABILITIES

• Basic knowledge of the footwear creation process from concept brief to production readiness
• Experience in project management, strong organizational skills, pro-active problem solver
• Effective communication skills
• English language proficiency required (reading and writing)
• International business travel (approximately twice a year for 7-10 days)
• Continuous learning/growth mindset
• Knowledge of Adobe Illustrator, Adobe Photoshop and/or 3D creation software (e.g. Rhino, Modo) is an advantage
• Competence in virtual creation is an advantage

QUALIFICATIONS

• University degree in manufacturing, engineering, biomechanics, sports science or business, or technical degree as footwear technician
• Alternatively, combination of relevant education, experience, and training
• First practical experience through internships or work experience required

AT ADIDAS WE HAVE A WINNING CULTURE. BUT TO WIN, PHYSICAL POWER IS NOT ENOUGH. JUST LIKE ATHLETES OUR EMPLOYEES NEED MENTAL STRENGTH IN THEIR GAME. WE FOSTER THE ATHLETE’S MINDSET THROUGH A SET OF BEHAVIORS THAT WE WANT TO ENABLE AND DEVELOP IN OUR PEOPLE AND THAT ARE AT THE CORE OF OUR UNIQUE COMPANY CULTURE: THIS IS HOW WE WIN WHILE PLAYING FAIR.

COURAGE: Speak up when you see an opportunity; step up when you see a need..

OWNERSHIP: Pick up the ball. Be proactive, take responsibility and follow-through.

INNOVATION: Elevate to win. Be curious, test and learn new and better ways of doing things.

TEAMPLAY: Win together. Work collaboratively and cultivate a shared mindset.

INTEGRITY: Play by the rules. Hold yourself and others accountable to our company’s standards.

RESPECT: Value all players. Display empathy, be inclusive and show dignity to all.

AT ADIDAS, WE STRONGLY BELIEVE THAT EMBEDDING DIVERSITY, EQUITY, AND INCLUSION (DEI) INTO OUR CULTURE AND TALENT PROCESSES GIVES OUR EMPLOYEES A SENSE OF BELONGING AND OUR BRAND A REAL COMPETITIVE ADVANTAGE.

– CULTURE STARTS WITH PEOPLE, IT STARTS WITH YOU –

BY RECRUITING TALENT AND DEVELOPING OUR PEOPLE TO REFLECT THE RICH DIVERSITY OF OUR CONSUMERS AND COMMUNITIES, WE FOSTER A CULTURE OF INCLUSION THAT ENGAGES OUR EMPLOYEES AND AUTHENTICALLY CONNECTS OUR BRAND WITH OUR CONSUMERS.

JOB TITLE: Developer FTW - Lifestyle Originals (m/f/d) BRAND: LOCATION: Herzogenaurach TEAM: Product Development \& Operations STATE: BY COUNTRY/REGION: DE CONTRACT TYPE: Full time NUMBER: 547964 DATE: Aug 5, 2026