Head of - Apparel Materials Development (Performance)

On; Zürich; Vor Ort; CHF 100.000 - 120.000; Vollzeit

Benefits dieser Stelle

Holistic development environment

Support for physical and mental well-being

Zusammenfassung

On is seeking a Senior Lead Materials Development for Performance in Apparel to drive material excellence in Zurich. This role requires expertise in materials, a strategic vision, and a passion for sustainable practices.

You will manage relationships with suppliers, oversee the development of a premium material palette, and ensure alignment with the brand’s identity. If you have over 10 years of experience in apparel development and a strong eye for aesthetics, consider joining the team.

Qualifikationen

• 10+ years of global experience in apparel or material development.
• Extensive knowledge of materials, trims, and fibers.
• Experience developing materials with global suppliers.

Aufgaben

• Guide and develop a premium material palette for garments.
• Manage material development from concept to commercialization.
• Drive sustainability by integrating new materials into products.

Kenntnisse

Apparel development expertise

Material aesthetics

Sustainability advocacy

Project management

Verbal and written communication

Jobbeschreibung

Overview

As the Senior Lead Materials Development for Performance in Apparel, you will drive material excellence across our diverse apparel and lifestyle product ranges. Your expertise will influence apparel design, aesthetics, and product quality. You will inspire cross‑functional teams with a strategic vision, champion ambitious, sustainable solutions aligned with ON Running’s brand identity. The role requires a proactive, entrepreneurial developer who thrives on challenges and is passionate about material aesthetics, premium quality, and authentic sustainability. You will report to the Head of Apparel Material and collaborate closely with Apparel Design, Product Management, and Development Leads.

Responsibilities

• Guide, curate, and develop a premium material palette to enhance garment fit, trims, and finishes, aligning with our design and performance identity.
• Manage material development from concept to commercialization handoff, following the calendar and ensuring clear communication with suppliers.
• Drive sustainability and innovation by working with the Head of Apparel Materials and the innovation and sustainability teams to integrate new materials and commercially ready innovations into product lines.
• Manage upfront material cost and lead time with suppliers, ensuring alignment with project goals and business objectives.
• Act as a key partner to all product creation stakeholders, including Design, Product Management, Development, Testing, and Sales.

Qualifications

• 10+ years of global experience in apparel, material development, or related industry, with a strong focus on performance apparel.
• Extensive knowledge of materials and trim, natural and synthetic fibers, wovens, knits, performance finishes, insulation, and print techniques; experience developing directional material franchises with global suppliers.
• Strong eye for product aesthetics, industry trend awareness, and strategic thinking aligned with ON Running market positioning.
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills to collaborate globally and present complex information effectively.
• Highly attentive to detail and skilled in project management, balancing creative direction with organization in a fast‑paced environment.
• Experience with global material sourcing and development, including travel to manufacturing hubs, trade fairs, and global sourcing offices.

Benefits

On is a place centered around growth and progress. We offer an environment that supports holistic development, encouraging staying active, learning, exploring, and innovating. Our approach combines a supportive, team‑oriented atmosphere with access to personal self‑care for physical and mental well‑being.

Equal Opportunity Employment

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.