Senior Footwear Material

On; Cowbridge; On-site; GBP 40,000 - 60,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading sports company is seeking a Footwear Material Specialist to manage material sourcing and supplier relationships. The role involves evaluating sustainability targets and collaborating with various teams to enhance material performance. Ideal candidates will have a degree in related fields and significant industry experience.

Benefits

Supportive team-oriented environment

Commitment to diversity and inclusion

Focus on physical and mental well-being

Qualifications

• At least 5 years of experience in the global footwear industry.
• Proficient in English; Mandarin is a plus.

Responsibilities

• Manage end-to-end material sourcing according to On's strategy.
• Evaluate and pursue targets related to On's sustainability roadmap.
• Coordinate with laboratories on testing standards.

Skills

Collaboration

Creativity

Technical Performance

Education

Degree in Footwear Textile Sciences

Degree in Textile Engineering

Job description

A new Footwear Material Specialist position is available at one of the world's fastest-growing sports companies. Based in Ho Chi Minh City, you will advance performance materials in line with On's materiality vision, focusing on development, technical aspects, and production capabilities, aligning with both short-term and long-term strategies. Reporting to the Footwear Materials Lead in Asia and collaborating with the Asia Development teams, you will support the Zurich HQ team from development through to production.

Your Mission

1. Manage end-to-end material sourcing according to On's strategy, developing and managing supplier relationships and technical support to optimize lead times, quality, and costs.
2. Evaluate and pursue targets related to On's sustainability roadmap, seeking improvements in material performance, sustainability, and efficiency.
3. Support Toolbox initiatives by updating core and seasonal material toolboxes and managing the material library at On's Vietnam locations.
4. Coordinate with laboratories on testing standards, oversee testing and approval processes, and advise on material improvements through knowledge of yarns, structures, and polymers.
5. Build strong relationships with suppliers and vendors, managing strategic and in-line vendors based on profiles.
6. Communicate seasonal material forecasts with planning and factories, and liaise with design, product development, innovation, and sustainability teams on specifications and delivery timelines.

Your Profile

• Degree in Footwear Textile Sciences, Textile Engineering/Technology, or related field, with a desire to continue learning.
• At least 5 years of experience in the global footwear industry or relevant industry within Asia suppliers.
• Passion for footwear design and technology, with a focus on technical performance and aesthetics, and knowledge of technical materials.
• Team player with strong collaboration skills and the ability to compromise.
• Ability to balance creativity with organization in a fast-paced environment.
• Proficient in English; Mandarin is a plus.

Meet The Team

The Material team at On is a blend of creativity and technical expertise, translating design visions into performance materials while bringing in new ideas from outside suppliers. As a central link between design, development, and product management, we are a growing team gaining recognition for the vital role materials play in product creation. We seek proactive, entrepreneurial individuals ready to contribute from day one.

What We Offer

On fosters growth and progress through a supportive, team-oriented environment that encourages learning, exploration, and innovation. We prioritize physical and mental well-being and are committed to diversity and inclusion, ensuring a fair and equitable workplace for all.