At a Glance
Join On's Footwear Innovation team as the Director of Innovation & Technology Management. In this role, you will lead a dynamic group of technology-driven business developers, technical project managers, and engineers. Your mission will be to amplify the impact of product innovation by strategically managing the portfolio and processes, while driving the successful implementation and scalability of emerging technologies in footwear, including product, material, and manufacturing concepts. This position encompasses leadership of the Innovation Management team, ensuring strategic alignment and operational excellence, as well as the Technology Management team, which focuses on the scalable implementation and continuous evolution of key technologies and innovations.
Your Team
The Innovation team is responsible for On’s future products, employing out-of-the-box thinking and athlete-informed technology that differentiates On’s offerings in the market. Our goal is 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 groups: Innovation Management and Technology Management. The Innovation Management team focuses on aligning innovation initiatives strategically, managing our innovation portfolio effectively, and continuously improving our innovation processes. The Technology Management team ensures the successful scaling and implementation of key technologies, driving forward strategic technology initiatives. Together, these teams play a crucial role in translating bold ideas into impactful realities for On.
Your Mission & Responsibilities
We are seeking a strategic and results-oriented Director of Innovation & Technology Management to lead two critical functions within our Innovation department: Innovation Management and Technology Management. This pivotal role ensures our innovation efforts are strategically focused, efficiently executed, and that key innovations are successfully scaled and implemented across the organization. You will lead a team of talented professionals to maximize the impact of innovation at On.
Key Responsibilities
- Strategic Leadership:
- Develop and implement a comprehensive strategy for Innovation and Technology Management, aligning with On's overarching business objectives.
- Lead and mentor two teams: Innovation Management and Technology Management, fostering a collaborative and high-performing environment.
- Drive a culture of continuous improvement in innovation processes and technology implementation.
- Innovation Management Leadership:
- Ensure Innovation initiatives align with On's overall goals and priorities.
- Oversee the management of the Innovation Portfolio, including prioritization, resource allocation, and progress tracking.
- 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.
- Technology Management Leadership:
- Drive the successful scaling, implementation, and continuous evolution of On's key technologies.
- Identify, evaluate, and scale new key technologies that provide a competitive advantage.
- Manage the momentum of technology through clearly defined work streams prioritized based on strategic alignment and potential impact.
- Collaborate with technical teams to ensure smooth technology transfer, integration, and adoption across the product organization.
- Cross-Functional Collaboration:
- Work closely with all teams in the product organization to ensure alignment and effective collaboration on innovation and technology initiatives.
- Effectively communicate with stakeholders at all levels regarding the innovation portfolio, processes, and technology roadmap.
- Manage budgets and resources effectively, ensuring optimal utilization.
Qualifications
- Master's degree in Business Administration, Engineering, Innovation Management, or a related field.
- Proven track record of leadership for over 10 years in innovation management and/or product technology management functions, preferably within the sportswear or similar consumer-facing industry.
- Strong understanding of innovation processes, portfolio management, and operational excellence principles.
- Experience in driving the implementation and scaling of new technologies.
- Demonstrated ability to lead and inspire cross-functional teams.
- Excellent strategic thinking, problem-solving, and decision-making skills.
- Exceptional communication, presentation, and interpersonal skills.
- A strong interest in sports, technology, sustainability, and innovation.
Apply online using the form below. Only applications matching the job profile will be considered.