Apparel R&D Director

DAINESE; Colceresa; In loco; EUR 75.000 - 95.000; Tempo pieno

Descrizione del lavoro

A global leader in protective gear based in Veneto, Italy, is seeking an Apparel R&D Director. This role involves overseeing the Research & Development function for the Apparel division, focusing on innovation, product quality, and safety. The ideal candidate has at least 5 years of experience in the sports apparel sector, strong leadership skills, and a passion for motorsport. The position also requires managing an international team and ensuring alignment with market trends and regulatory standards.

Competenze

• Minimum 5 years' experience in the role, preferably in sports apparel.
• Strong leadership skills to manage teams through development processes.
• Solid understanding of advanced materials and protective technologies.

Mansioni

• Coordinate R&D department activities in line with strategic objectives.
• Supervise development of motorcycle apparel and protective gear.
• Ensure continuous technological monitoring of product portfolio.
• Manage international teams and develop networks with consultants.

Conoscenze

Leadership skills

Understanding of apparel development

Project management

Knowledge of market trends

Communication skills

Innovation mindset

Descrizione del lavoro

Dainese , a global company leader in protective equipment and garments for motorcycling and dynamic sports, is looking for an Apparel R&D Director .

He / she will be responsible for leading the Research & Development function for the Apparel division, driving innovation, product quality, and safety in alignment with the company’s strategic objectives and evolving market needs.

This role ensures the continuous advancement of technologies, materials, and processes to deliver cutting‑edge products that meet performance, comfort, and regulatory standards.

The R&D Apparel Director will translate creative concepts into functional, high‑quality solutions. Additionally, the position requires proactive identification of market trends, integration of emerging technologies, and leadership in setting long‑term innovation roadmaps to maintain the brand’s competitive edge.

YOU WILL BE IN CHARGE OF :

• Coordinate the activities and resources of the Research & Development department in line with objectives, plans, and strategies agreed with the Executive Management, defining timelines and key milestones.
• Supervise the development activities for motorcycle apparel and protective gear collections, Racing and Custom Works product development, and the engineering of garments equipped with Airbag technology (D-Air®).
• Develop and propose R&D strategies based on opportunities identified internally, requests from the Category Management Department, and inputs provided by the Innovation Department.
• Ensure achievement of innovation, product range depth, and safety objectives , collaborating with other company departments (Category Management, Innovation, Quality, and Validation) while respecting defined costs and timelines for collection development.
• Guarantee continuous technological monitoring of the product portfolio , preparing update programs to meet regulatory and commercial requirements.
• Plan division activities , ensuring responsibility for costs, timelines, and quality.
• Manage an international team , fostering motivation and professional development, as well as managing and expanding the network of external consultants and laboratories supporting in‑house activities.
• Continuously monitor compliance with company standards and procedures regarding quality and certifications, in collaboration with the Quality and Validation Departments.

WE'D LOVE TO GET TO KNOW YOU IF :

• You have at least 5years' work experience in the role, preferably in the sports apparel, motorcycle clothing, and protective gear sector.
• You have a solid understanding of apparel development, advanced materials, and protective technologies.
• You have strong leadership skills and the ability to manage teams through complex development processes, excellent communication skills and ability to work cross‑functionally.
• You have strategic vision and innovation mindset.
• You are skilled in managing complex projects , ensuring alignment with timelines, budgets, and quality standards.
• You have the ability to understand market trends and the needs of motorcyclists, combined with a genuine passion for motorsport.

Availability for business trips is required.

Motorcycle driving license “A” is a plus.