Footwear Materials Design Lead — Innovation & Sustainability

Job-Room; Zürich; Hybrid; CHF 140.000 - 210.000; Vollzeit

Zusammenfassung

On is seeking a Lead Material Designer to shape the material strategy for footwear and performance products, balancing performance, aesthetics and sustainability. You will lead and inspire a global team, translating cultural insights into material strategies that define On’s future.

The role requires 8–10+ years in footwear or performance design with deep Material Design expertise, plus strong construction knowledge and cross-functional influence.

Qualifikationen

• Bachelor’s degree in Textile Design, Product Design, or a related field.
• 8–10+ years of experience in footwear or performance product design with deep Material Design expertise.
• Proven track record leading material direction and delivering innovative products.
• Strong expertise in material construction, manufacturing processes, and performance requirements.
• Able to lead teams and influence stakeholders across functions.
• Strategic thinker linking creative vision to business impact.
• Proficient in design tools (Adobe Creative Suite, PLM); 3D capabilities a plus.

Aufgaben

• Define and drive long-term material design vision across categories.
• Own seasonal material briefs aligning with commercial, sustainability, and margin targets.
• Establish differentiated material narratives to elevate product storytelling.
• Lead exploration and integration of new materials, technologies, and finishes for performance and sustainability.
• Guide development of engineered materials ensuring design intent is realized at scale.
• Oversee material mapping and library strategy across product lines.
• Act as a key partner across Footwear Design, Color, Development, and Product Strategy teams.
• Lead, mentor, and develop Material Designers, fostering growth and high performance.

Kenntnisse

Material design

Team leadership

Cross-functional influence

Brand storytelling

Ausbildung

Bachelor's degree in Textile Design, Product Design, or related field

Tools

Adobe Creative Suite

PLM

3D capabilities

Jobbeschreibung

On is seeking a Lead Material Designer to shape the material strategy for footwear and performance products, balancing performance, aesthetics and sustainability. You will lead and inspire a global team, translating cultural insights into material strategies that define On’s future.

The role requires 8–10+ years in footwear or performance design with deep Material Design expertise, plus strong construction knowledge and cross-functional influence.