Director of Innovation Management & Strategy / Directress of Innovation Management & Strategy

Join Our Team as the Director of Innovation Management

Become a vital part of On's Footwear Innovation team as the Director of Innovation Management. In this role, you will lead a dynamic group of technology-savvy business developers and technical project managers. Your mission is to amplify the impact of product innovation by strategically managing the innovation portfolio, processes, and long-term vision. This position focuses on guiding the Innovation Management team, driving visioning and strategy creation, and ensuring that our innovation initiatives—from "Big Bets" to our iconic technology franchises—are transformed into impactful realities for On.

Your Mission

• Strategic Leadership:
  • Develop and implement a comprehensive strategy for Innovation Management, aligning it with On's overarching business objectives.
  • Lead and mentor the Innovation Management team, cultivating a collaborative and high-performance environment.
  • Foster a culture of continuous improvement in innovation processes and strategic portfolio alignment.
  • Act as the primary liaison between Innovation and other departments to ensure strategic cohesion.
• Innovation Management Leadership:
  • Ensure innovation initiatives are strategically aligned with On's overall goals and priorities.
  • Oversee the Innovation Portfolio management, including prioritization, resource allocation, and progress tracking.
  • Serve as the PMO for "Big Bet" Innovation projects, ensuring high-impact initiatives are executed with excellence.
  • Lead the continuous improvement and operational excellence of the end-to-end innovation process.
  • Develop and implement frameworks and tools to enhance the efficiency and effectiveness of innovation activities.
• Strategic Technology Alignment:
  • Manage specific tech brand franchises and the technology rollout for key innovations such as Superfoam, CloudTec®, and New Propulsion Tech.
  • Ensure the successful identification and evaluation of new technologies and materials that offer a competitive advantage.
  • Oversee the strategic technology roadmap, prioritizing workstreams based on strategic alignment and potential impact.
  • Collaborate with all technical teams to ensure a smooth transition of innovations into the product organization.
• Cross-Functional Collaboration:
  • Work closely with all teams in the product organization to ensure alignment and effective collaboration on innovation initiatives.
  • Communicate effectively with stakeholders at all levels regarding the innovation portfolio, processes, and technology roadmap.
  • Manage budgets and resources efficiently, ensuring optimal utilization.

Your Story

• Master's degree in Business Administration, Engineering, Innovation Management, or a related field.
• Proven track record of leadership for over 10 years in an innovation management or product strategy function, preferably in the sportswear or a similar consumer-facing industry.
• Strong foundational understanding of technologies and material science to effectively evaluate innovation potential and manage tech franchises.
• Deep understanding of innovation processes, portfolio management, and principles of operational excellence.
• Demonstrated ability to lead and inspire cross-functional teams and drive strategic visioning.
• Excellent strategic thinking, problem-solving, and decision-making skills.
• Exceptional communication, presentation, and interpersonal skills.
• A strong interest in sports, technology, sustainability, and innovation.

About the Team

The Innovation team is responsible for On's future products, pioneering thinking, and athlete-informed technology that differentiate On's offerings in the market, aiming to establish On as the most premium global sportswear brand built on performance, design, and impact. Within the Innovation team, you will lead two highly motivated and skilled teams: Innovation Management and Technology Management. The Innovation Management team focuses on the strategic alignment of innovation initiatives, effectively managing our innovation portfolio, and continuously improving our innovation processes. The Technology Management team is responsible for the successful scaling, implementation, and advancement of our key technologies, ensuring that strategic technology initiatives are propelled forward effectively. Together, these teams play a crucial role in turning bold ideas into meaningful realities for On.

Apply online using the form below. Only applications matching the job profile will be considered.