Senior Lead - Development Manager, Special Projects / Senior Lead - Development Manageress, Special Projects

On AG - January 13, 2026

At a Glance

We are seeking a Senior Lead - Development Manager for Special Projects to play a pivotal role in shaping the future of On’s Global Real Estate + Development team from our Headquarters in Zurich. This dynamic and senior strategic position lies within the Global Strategic Initiatives team, where you will be responsible for the strategic development, elevated decision-making, and end-to-end execution of high-profile, globally impactful initiatives. You will act as the driving force, spearheading complex projects within our Real Estate portfolio, and will be required to make high-stakes decisions that bear significant implications for the brand, often under pressure and in ambiguous situations. Beyond execution, your role will involve critically analyzing project outcomes to develop standardized playbooks and best practices for future Special Projects, documenting key learnings, optimizing processes, and establishing clear frameworks for subsequent endeavors.

Your Mission

  • Execute within the Strategic Vision: Pioneering new territory by embracing projects that push the boundaries of the brand's current capabilities and built environment portfolio.
  • Global Collaboration & Alignment: Foster strong collaboration and partnerships through active listening, respect for company objectives, and motivation of cross-functional teams towards unified outcomes.
  • Project Management: Utilize construction management expertise to ensure all special projects are delivered on time and within budget while meeting On's premium design aesthetic and commitment to quality.
  • Develop Global Best Practices: Transform successful new concepts from special projects into repeatable typologies ready for regional roll-out and implementation.
  • Drive Innovation: Embrace calculated risks and propose comprehensive action plans, maintaining the highest standards of quality and attention to detail to achieve On's premium design aesthetic.
  • Shape the Future of the On Community: Your work will have a broader impact on the company's environment and culture.

Your Story (What You Bring)

  • Project Experience (10+ Years): Demonstrated experience in architecture and construction, specifically managing complex projects (retail, workplace, etc.), including direct involvement in design development through to construction administration.
  • Elevated Decision-Making: Proven ability to make complex, high-stakes decisions with brand-wide implications under pressure and ambiguity.
  • Stakeholder Management: Exceptional communication skills and ability to collaborate effectively with diverse stakeholders while managing expectations.
  • Strategic Global Partnerships: Extensive experience in driving strategic partnerships, providing confident direction, mentorship, and support to cross-functional teams.
  • Novel Problem-Solving: Demonstrated ability to identify underlying systemic blockers and deliver unique, scalable solutions to new-to-brand challenges.
  • Calculated Risk Management: Proven ability to analyze strategic options, formulate comprehensive action plans, and successfully manage calculated risks that fuel innovation.
  • Innovation & Adaptability: Comfortable leading high-profile Special Projects that require exploring new approaches and operating outside established norms.
  • Design & Organizational Skills: Strong appreciation for design aesthetics coupled with the ability to manage multiple projects simultaneously and maintain meticulous records.
  • Language: Fluent in English with strong written and verbal communication skills. Fluency in another language is an advantage.
  • Travel: Willingness and ability to travel globally when needed.

Your Team

Within the Real Estate and Development team, the newly formed Global Strategic Initiatives team fosters a dynamic environment focused on maximizing the impact of our real estate portfolio. We drive operational excellence, build strong stakeholder relationships, and lead high-profile special projects.

As a key member of this team, you will spearhead the strategy and execution of initiatives related to On's built environment. Many of these groundbreaking projects will require you to utilize your construction management expertise while applying innovative approaches. You will drive strategic partnerships by addressing diverse stakeholder needs, synthesize complex requests, and employ critical thinking to deliver projects on time and to the highest design standards. Additionally, you will champion the development and implementation of best practices in project management.

Join us in shaping the architecture, behavior, culture, and future of the On community. With an exciting pipeline of ambitious and innovative projects, we are looking for a high-performing individual to enhance our team. Apply online using the form below. Only applications matching the job profile will be considered.

Location : Zürich
Country : Switzerland

Application Form

Please enter your information in the following form and attach your resume (CV)

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