Join Our Team as the Director of Innovation Management
Become a part of On’s Footwear Innovation team, where you will spearhead a dynamic group of technology-savvy business developers and technical project managers. Your mission will be to enhance the impact of product innovation by strategically managing the innovation portfolio, process, and long-term vision. This role emphasizes leading the Innovation Management team, fostering active visioning and strategy creation, and ensuring our innovation initiatives—from "Big Bets" to our iconic technology franchises—are transformed into significant realities for On.
Your Mission
Strategic Leadership
- Develop and implement a comprehensive strategy for Innovation Management, aligning with On's overarching business objectives.
- Lead and mentor the Innovation Management team, fostering a collaborative and high-performing atmosphere.
- Drive a culture of continuous improvement in innovation processes and strategic portfolio alignment.
- Act as the primary link between Innovation and the rest of the company to ensure strategic cohesion.
Innovation Management Leadership
- Ensure Innovation initiatives are strategically aligned with On's overall goals and priorities.
- Oversee the management of the Innovation Portfolio, including prioritization, resource allocation, and progress tracking.
- Serve as the PMO for "Big Bet" Innovation projects, executing high-impact initiatives 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 oversee the technology roll-out for key innovations such as Superfoam, CloudTec®, and New Propulsion Tech.
- Ensure the successful identification and evaluation of new technologies and materials that provide a competitive advantage.
- Oversee the strategic technology roadmap, prioritizing workstreams based on alignment and potential impact.
- Collaborate with technical teams to ensure a seamless transition of innovations into the product organization.
Cross-Functional Collaboration
- Work closely with all teams in the product organization to ensure alignment and collaboration on innovation initiatives.
- Communicate effectively with stakeholders at all levels concerning the innovation portfolio, processes, and technology roadmap.
- Manage budgets and resources efficiently to ensure optimal utilization.
Your Story
- Master's degree in Business Administration, Engineering, Innovation Management, or a related field.
- Proven leadership experience of over 10 years in innovation management or product strategy, preferably within the sportswear or a similar consumer-facing industry.
- Strong foundational understanding of technologies and material science to effectively assess innovation potential and manage tech franchises.
- Deep understanding of innovation processes, portfolio management, and operational excellence principles.
- Demonstrated ability to lead and inspire cross-functional teams, driving strategic visioning.
- Excellent strategic thinking, problem-solving, and decision-making capabilities.
- 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, fostering out-of-the-box thinking, and deploying athlete-informed technology that sets On’s products apart as the premier global sportswear brand, rooted in performance, design, and impact. Within the Innovation team, you will lead two highly motivated and skilled groups: 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 ensures the successful scaling, implementation, and evolution of our key technologies, driving forward strategic technology initiatives effectively. Together, these teams are essential in transforming bold ideas into impactful realities for On.
Apply online using the form below. Only applications matching the job profile will be considered.