Apparel R&D Director

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:

• 5 years’ work experience in the role, preferably in the sports apparel, motorcycle clothing, and protective gear sector.
• A solid understanding of apparel development, advanced materials, and protective technologies.
• Strong leadership skills and the ability to manage teams through complex development processes.
• Excellent communication skills and ability to work cross‑functionally.
• A strategic vision and an innovation mindset.
• Skilled in managing complex projects, ensuring alignment with timelines, budgets, and quality standards.
• The ability to understand market trends and the needs of motorcyclists, combined with a genuine passion for motorsport.
• Availability for business trips.
• Motorcycle driving license “A” is a plus.