Head of Product Development | Accessories
Zurich
In short
We are looking for a visionary and technically proficient Head of Product Development | to lead our accessories product engine. This is a critical leadership role where you will be responsible for translating creative concepts into highly functional, durable, and commercially viable (technical) performance and lifestyle accessories. You will lead a high-performing team, drive product innovation, and own the development process from initial prototyping to final production, ensuring the highest standards of quality, performance, and sustainability. This role will report into the Global Senior Director of Product Creation + Sourcing.
Your mission
Your mission is to execute the accessories development strategy and roadmap aligned with the overall brand, product, and financial goals. You will oversee development and successful commercialization from ideation to launch, including engineering, sampling, testing, milestone management, and final specifications. You will deliver against gross margin targets, manage department budgets while optimising costs. You will also provide collaborative leadership to align teams and foster an innovative work environment that encourages creativity, risk-taking and continuous improvement.
Key Responsibilities
- Execute overall accessories development strategy and map out a roadmap which aligns with the overall brand, product, and financial goals
- Oversee all development and ensure commercialization of the product range from ideation to launch, including development engineering, sampling, testing, milestone management, and final product specifications
- Work as a partner to Design, Materials, Innovation, Product Management, and Sourcing teams to ensure successful delivery of seasonal products and execute strategic vision for the business
- Deliver against gross margin targets and manage department budgets while optimizing on costs
- Conduct comprehensive market research to identify emerging trends, competitive threats, and new market opportunities
- Support and partner with our Sourcing teams in Asia & Europe on building a robust global sourcing strategy that emphasises high-quality products, world-class partnerships, service, ethical sourcing and sustainability
- Implement supply chain initiatives, in partnership with our ESG team, that reduce environmental impact, such as using recycled and preferred materials, advanced water treatment and color dyeing technologies and optimising logistics with initiatives like localisation
- Stay at the forefront of emerging technologies and market trends to identify and oversee the development of innovative accessories that meet performance, durability, and sustainability requirements, which will instigate new ways of thinking about products
- Establish and enforce rigorous product testing and quality control protocols to ensure compliance with industry standards and brand requirements
- Spearhead and streamline product development and manufacturing processes to increase efficiency, reduce complexity and time to market
- Build and maintain strong relationships with key suppliers, engage with industry stakeholders, including athletes and sports professionals and work with the cross-functional stakeholders to gather customer feedback and incorporate it into future product designs.
Your story
- 15+ years of experience in accessories (hard and soft goods), including at least 7 years in a senior leadership role.
- Hold a deep understanding of sports accessory trends and competitor landscapes, with a proven ability to identify and capitalise on market opportunities, to drive growth and innovation within the accessories category
- Proven track record of successful team leadership and the ability to inspire and motivate a diverse group of professionals, ability to influence stakeholders, and to translate technical complexities for non-technical audiences
- Expert knowledge of technical textiles, manufacturing processes, and "design for manufacturing" principles, alongside proficiency in the latest creation software.
- A strong commitment to sustainability and a history of implementing sustainability initiatives in product development and sourcing
- Experienced in global supply chain management, optimising processes for efficiency, cost reduction, and quality
- Familiarity with the latest creation software and technologies relevant to accessory design, development and production.
What we offer
On is a place that is centered around growth and progress. We offer an environment designed to give people the tools to develop holistically- to stay active, to learn, explore and innovate. Our distinctive approach combines a supportive, team-oriented atmosphere with access to personal self-care for both physical and mental well-being, so each person is led by purpose.
On is an Equal Opportunity Employer. We are committed to creating a work environment that is fair and inclusive, where all decisions related to recruitment, advancement, and retention are free of discrimination.
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