Young Managers Footwear Award 2025

For young managers between the ages of 21 and 32, this prestigious award recognises and rewards talent across all sectors of the footwear industry.

The award winner receives substantial funding from the Pattenmakers for a bespoke training and development programme which aims to improve their skills and build experience within the industry.

We encourage all companies to propose any young managers who have impressed in their current roles and whom you believe would benefit from the support, training and network opportunities that can be offered through the Pattenmakers.

Request for Nominations
Can you think of someone in your organisation who deserves this award?

For well over 25 years, The Worshipful Company of Pattenmakers has proudly hosted this unique awards scheme for Young Manager’s within the footwear  industry.

During this time, we have supported many individuals with their career development, assisting with their personal development and their professional networks – even through the toughest of times.

So, who exactly is Eligible?
Any candidate under the age of 32 is eligible, but it must be someone you think has the potential to develop into a strong manager.

We look forward to receiving applications from across the whole footwear industry. Past winners have come from retail, buying, range management, technical, design and marketing, so wherever you have promising young talent in your organisation, make sure they get the recognition they deserve and (together with their line manager) please put them forward this year.

Our aim is to encourage and nurture young people with a passion and talent for footwear, those who wish to develop long term careers in the industry and those that you think are potential rising stars.

The Award Scheme
Liveryman Annette Cove (who has many years experience coaching and mentoring young people) will work closely with the winner to design a valuable and bespoke development programme and fully support them throughout the year.

This continuous support might include off-the-job courses and work placements designed to broaden the perspectives of the Young Manager, and in full consultation with his or her line manager/employer, Annette will plan each training programme focused specifically on the needs of the individual.

The winner will receive their award from the Lord Mayor of London at Mansion House on the occasion of the Pattenmakers’ Annual Banquet in January 2025. The winner also receives the Freedom of the Livery with the opportunity to later apply for the Freedom of the City of London. In addition they will be invited to the Footwear Trade Dinner in May 2025 as a guest of the Livery, along with other shortlisted candidates and their line managers.

Selection Criteria
Shortlisted candidates are interviewed by a panel of senior footwear specialists

Please consider the selection criteria below when thinking about the candidate/s you would like to propose.

• Enthusiastic about a career in the footwear and fashion industry
• Can demonstrate commitment to their personal development
• Has a high standard of professional ethics
• Has managerial responsibility (people, product, facilities and design)
• Has potential for future promotion to a senior role
• Can demonstrate initiative and drive
• Displays leadership behaviours inside and outside the workplace
• Age21–32
• Has the support of their director and line manager

How to nominate a candidate:
Simply make your nomination on the form below by Friday 1st November 2024.

Interviews will be held in London on Friday 29th November 2024.

Should you require further information about the scheme please email jane wilson on jwpatttenmakers@gmail.com.