In Short
We are seeking a visionary and technically proficient Head of Product Development to lead our accessories product engine. This critical leadership role will involve 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 oversee the development process from initial prototyping to final production, ensuring the highest standards of quality, performance, and sustainability. This role 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 development and successful commercialization from ideation to launch, including engineering, sampling, testing, milestone management, and final specifications. You will deliver against gross margin targets, manage department budgets while optimizing costs. Additionally, you will provide collaborative leadership to align teams and foster 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 brand, product, and financial goals.
- Oversee all development processes and ensure commercialization of the product range from ideation to launch, including engineering, sampling, testing, milestone management, and final specifications.
- Collaborate with Design, Materials, Innovation, Product Management, and Sourcing teams to ensure the successful delivery of seasonal products and execute the strategic vision for the business.
- Meet gross margin targets and manage department budgets while optimizing costs.
- Conduct comprehensive market research to identify emerging trends, competitive threats, and new market opportunities.
- Partner with our Sourcing teams in Asia & Europe to build a robust global sourcing strategy that emphasizes high-quality products, world-class partnerships, ethical sourcing, and sustainability.
- Implement supply chain initiatives, in collaboration with our ESG team, to reduce environmental impact, such as utilizing recycled materials and optimizing logistics.
- Stay updated on 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 efforts to streamline product development and manufacturing processes, enhancing efficiency and reducing time to market.
- Build and maintain strong relationships with key suppliers, engage with industry stakeholders, including athletes and sports professionals, and collaborate 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 deep understanding of sports accessory trends and competitive 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 sustainable initiatives in product development and sourcing.
- Extensive 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.