Head of Product Development
We are seeking a visionary and technically proficient Head of Product Development to lead our accessories product engine. This critical leadership role involves translating creative concepts into highly functional, durable, and commercially viable performance and lifestyle accessories. You will lead a high-performing team, drive product innovation, and take ownership of the development process from initial prototyping to final production, ensuring the highest standards of quality, performance, and sustainability. This position will report to the Global Senior Director of Product Creation & Sourcing.
Your Mission
Your mission is to execute the accessories development strategy and roadmap aligned with the overall brand, product, and financial goals. You will oversee the development and successful commercialization from ideation to launch, which includes engineering, sampling, testing, milestone management, and final specifications. Additionally, you will deliver against gross margin targets, manage department budgets while optimizing costs, and provide collaborative leadership to align teams, fostering an innovative work environment that encourages creativity, risk-taking, and continuous improvement.
Key Responsibilities
- Execute the overall accessories development strategy and map out a roadmap that aligns with the overall brand, product, and financial goals.
- Oversee all development and ensure the commercialization of the product range from ideation to launch, including development engineering, sampling, testing, milestone management, and final product specifications.
- Collaborate with the Design, Materials, Innovation, Product Management, and Sourcing teams to ensure the successful delivery of seasonal products and execute 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 partner with our Sourcing teams in Asia & Europe to build a robust global sourcing strategy that emphasizes high-quality products, world-class partnerships, service, ethical sourcing, and sustainability.
- Implement supply chain initiatives in partnership with our ESG team that reduce environmental impact, such as using recycled and preferred materials, advanced water treatment and color dyeing technologies, and optimizing logistics with initiatives like localization.
- Stay at the forefront of emerging technologies and market trends to identify and 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 increase efficiency, reduce complexity, and decrease time to market.
- Build and maintain strong relationships with key suppliers and engage with industry stakeholders, including athletes and sports professionals, to gather customer feedback and incorporate it into 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 deep understanding of sports accessory trends and competitor landscapes, with a proven ability to identify and capitalize on market opportunities to drive growth and innovation within the accessories category.
- A proven track record of successful 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, alongside 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. Only applications matching the job profile will be considered.