Job Opportunity: Head of Accessories Creation
We are searching for a visionary and technically adept Head of Accessories Creation to lead our accessories product engine. This critical leadership role involves transforming creative concepts into highly functional, durable, and commercially viable performance and lifestyle accessories. You will oversee a high-performing team, drive product innovation, and take ownership of the development process from initial prototyping through to final production, ensuring the highest standards of quality, performance, and sustainability. This position will report directly to the Global Senior Director of Product Creation & Sourcing.
Your Mission
Your mission is to execute the accessories development strategy and roadmap in alignment with the overarching brand, product, and financial goals. You will manage the development and successful commercialization of products from conception to launch, including engineering, sampling, testing, milestone management, and final specifications. You will be responsible for delivering against gross margin targets, managing departmental budgets while optimizing costs, and providing collaborative leadership to align teams. Your efforts will foster an innovative work environment that encourages creativity, risk-taking, and continuous improvement.
Key Responsibilities:
- Execute the overall accessories development strategy and create a roadmap that aligns with the brand, product, and financial goals.
- Oversee all development activities to ensure successful commercialization of the product range from ideation to launch, including engineering, sampling, testing, milestone management, and final product specifications.
- Collaborate with Design, Materials, Innovation, Product Management, and Sourcing teams to ensure successful delivery of seasonal products while executing the strategic vision for the business.
- Deliver against gross margin targets and manage department budgets while optimizing costs.
- Conduct comprehensive market research to identify emerging trends, competitive threats, and new market opportunities.
- Support and collaborate with our Sourcing teams in Asia & Europe to build a robust global sourcing strategy that emphasizes high-quality products and sustainability.
- Implement supply chain initiatives, in partnership with our ESG team, designed to reduce environmental impact, including the use of recycled materials and advanced dyeing technologies.
- Stay ahead of emerging technologies and market trends to oversee the development of innovative accessories that meet performance, durability, and sustainability requirements.
- Establish and enforce rigorous product testing and quality control protocols to ensure compliance with industry standards and brand requirements.
- Spearhead and streamline product development and manufacturing processes to enhance efficiency and reduce time to market.
- Build and maintain strong relationships with key suppliers, engage with industry stakeholders, including athletes and sports professionals, and work closely with cross-functional teams to gather customer feedback for future product designs.
Your Story
- 15+ years of experience in accessories (hard and soft goods), with at least 7 years in a senior leadership role.
- A profound understanding of sports accessory trends and competitor landscapes, with a proven ability to identify and capitalize on market opportunities to drive growth and innovation.
- A successful track record of team leadership, with the ability to inspire and motivate a diverse group of professionals, influence stakeholders, and translate technical complexities for non-technical audiences.
- Expert knowledge of technical textiles, manufacturing processes, and design for manufacturing principles, along with proficiency in the latest creation software.
- A strong commitment to sustainability and a history of implementing sustainability initiatives in product development and sourcing.
- Experience in global supply chain management, optimizing processes for efficiency, cost reduction, and quality.
- Familiarity with the latest creation software and technologies relevant to accessory design, development, and production.
Apply online using the form below. Please note that only applications matching the job profile will be considered.