Head of Performance Running Footwear

Tracksmith; Boston (MA); Hybrid; USD 145,000 - 175,000; Full time

Job summary

Tracksmith in Boston, MA, is seeking a Director of Footwear to lead the strategic and technical development of high-performance running shoes. You will guide a team across sports science, engineering, and consumer insights to deliver products that maximize energy return while meeting margin and sustainability targets.

Collaborate with Design, PLM, Planning, Merchandising, and Operations to move from concept to global launches, manage advanced materials, testing, and manufacturing with

Qualifications

• 10-12+ years of progressive footwear development experience.
• Bachelor’s degree in Industrial Design, Mechanical Engineering, Biomechanics, Sports Science, or related field.
• 4+ years of direct team management in cross-functional product teams.
• Global operations experience with Asian manufacturing partners and willingness to travel.

Responsibilities

• Lead end-to-end development of the performance running portfolio.
• Oversee transition from 2D concepts to manufacturable 3D prototypes and hit performance metrics.
• Guide integration of advanced materials and aero/tech components into products.
• Partner with sports labs, wear-test teams, and elite athletes for validation.
• Manage costing and partnerships to achieve margin targets.

Skills

Biomechanics

Materials knowledge

Data-driven

Cross-functional leadership

Education

Bachelor’s degree in Industrial Design or Engineering

Job description

Tracksmith in Boston, MA, is seeking a Director of Footwear to lead the strategic and technical development of high-performance running shoes. You will guide a team across sports science, engineering, and consumer insights to deliver products that maximize energy return while meeting margin and sustainability targets.

Collaborate with Design, PLM, Planning, Merchandising, and Operations to move from concept to global launches, manage advanced materials, testing, and manufacturing with