Head of Premium Apparel Materials & Innovation

On; Zürich; On-site; CHF 180,000 - 240,000; Full time

Job summary

On seeks a Senior Materials Development Lead to guide the premium material palette for performance apparel, ensuring materials meet fit, finish, and identity standards. You will manage development from concept to commercialization, collaborate with design and global sourcing, and drive sustainability with the innovation teams.

You will lead material concepts, evaluate supplier partnerships, and align with the brand's mission to feel nothing to feel everything, while coordinating across product

Qualifications

• 10+ years of global experience in apparel material development or related industry.
• Extensive knowledge of materials, trims, fiber types, and performance finishes; experience with directional material franchises.
• Strategic vision with awareness of industry trends and brand positioning.
• Excellent verbal and written communication for global collaboration.

Responsibilities

• Guide, curate and develop a premium material palette that enhances fit, trims, and finishes while aligning with On's identity.
• Manage material development from initial design brief to commercialization handoff, ensuring calendar adherence and clear supplier communication.
• Drive sustainability and innovation by integrating new materials and working with global sourcing to build a robust supplier network.
• Handle upfront material pricing and lead times with suppliers to meet project goals.
• Partner with Design, Product Management, Development, Testing, and Sales across the product creation process.

Skills

Materials expertise

Supplier development

Project management

Global experience

Job description

On seeks a Senior Materials Development Lead to guide the premium material palette for performance apparel, ensuring materials meet fit, finish, and identity standards. You will manage development from concept to commercialization, collaborate with design and global sourcing, and drive sustainability with the innovation teams.

You will lead material concepts, evaluate supplier partnerships, and align with the brand's mission to feel nothing to feel everything, while coordinating across product