In short

We are seeking an experienced and dynamic Senior Lead - Footwear Manufacturing to oversee the build-up and ramp-up of a state-of-the-art, fully automated sports shoe manufacturing line in Zurich. This is an exciting opportunity for a senior leader with a passion for innovation and a proven track record in leading manufacturing teams and operating automated production lines. As the Senior Lead, you will play a key role in shaping the future of our manufacturing operations by driving the optimisation of cutting-edge robotics-based technology, processes, and operations.

You will lead a team of machine operators, engineers, and production staff to ensure high-quality, efficient, and scalable production. This role is about more than managing an established production line – it’s about building, scaling, and optimising a new manufacturing process, solving complex challenges, and continuously learning and adapting as we innovate.

Your Mission

  • Lead the build-up of a fully automated production line for sports shoe manufacturing, ensuring efficient ramp-up, scalability, and consistent output.
  • Lead, mentor, and build a high-performance manufacturing team, fostering a collaborative and innovative environment.
  • Drive the optimisation of manufacturing processes and technology with a focus on achieving high-quality products, high efficiency, and smooth production flow.
  • Collaborate with engineers and technical teams to fine-tune robotic and automation technologies, solving operational challenges and improving production efficiency.
  • Develop and implement production strategies that prioritise speed, quality, safety, and cost-efficiency.
  • Actively troubleshoot and resolve technical and operational issues during the production ramp-up phase, continuously improving processes and finding innovative solutions.
  • Establish best practices for production processes, safety standards, maintenance schedules, and quality control.
  • Monitor production performance and KPIs, ensuring consistent output, high-quality standards, and the achievement of production targets.
  • Lead continuous learning and knowledge-sharing efforts within the team to ensure everyone is up-to-date with emerging technologies and best practices. Work closely with cross-functional teams (engineering, innovation, logistics, etc.) to align production goals with overall company objectives.
  • Drive a culture of innovation and agility, encouraging team members to proactively contribute ideas and improvements.
Group of girls smiling
  • Man and woman sat at desks talking
  • Open planned office with men and women sat on a a large curved sofa
  • Group of runners talking outside the office
  • A team of people sat on the steps with a view of mountains outside the office.
  • Two women smiling at each other in a meeting room with large curved windows
  • A group of people sat around a table looking at large design papers
  • 3 men sat around with laptops smiling at each other
  • a large group of runners holding an On flag smiling at the camera
  • Man and woman sat at desks talking
  • Open planned office with men and women sat on a a large curved sofa
  • Group of runners talking outside the office
  • A team of people sat on the steps with a view of mountains outside the office.
  • Two women smiling at each other in a meeting room with large curved windows
  • A group of people sat around a table looking at large design papers
  • 3 men sat around with laptops smiling at each other
  • a large group of runners holding an On flag smiling at the camera
  • Man and woman sat at desks talking
  • Open planned office with men and women sat on a a large curved sofa
  • Group of runners talking outside the office
  • A team of people sat on the steps with a view of mountains outside the office.
  • Two women smiling at each other in a meeting room with large curved windows
  • A group of people sat around a table looking at large design papers
  • 3 men sat around with laptops smiling at each other
  • a large group of runners holding an On flag smiling at the camera

Your story

  • Proven experience in leading manufacturing teams and operations, particularly in automated production lines or robotics-based manufacturing.
  • Experience ramping up new manufacturing lines, ideally in high-tech or innovative environments, with a demonstrated ability to solve challenges and drive operational excellence.
  • Strong track record in building and scaling manufacturing operations, with expertise in process optimisation, automation, and continuous improvement.
  • Entrepreneurial mindset with the ability to creatively tackle complex problems and make quick decisions in a fast-paced environment.
  • Excellent leadership and people management skills, able to inspire teams to achieve production targets while maintaining high quality and safety standards.
  • Strong technical knowledge of automated manufacturing technologies (e.g., robotics, AI, machine learning) with the ability to quickly adapt to new systems and processes.
  • Excellent problem-solving and analytical skills to address both technical and operational challenges efficiently.
  • Strong communication skills, with the ability to collaborate effectively with cross-functional teams, stakeholders, and senior leadership.
  • Ability to perform well under pressure, manage ambiguity, and handle multiple priorities in a fast-evolving environment.
  • Degree in Engineering, Manufacturing, or a related field (or equivalent experience); advanced degree is a plus.
  • Excellent written and spoken English skills.
Three On colleagues eating lunch together

About the Team

We’re a dynamic group of forward-thinkers, bound by one common goal: to challenge conventions and push the boundaries of what’s possible. Combining robotics, material innovation, and an unwavering passion for disruption, our team is dedicated to rewriting the rulebook of sportswear. We’re pioneers, constantly looking for new ways to blend technology with creativity to shape the future of running shoes. Join us, and be part of a team that’s not just innovating - we’re revolutionising the game.

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A man smiling to the camera whilst working on a shoe
A man smiling to the camera whilst working on a shoe

Explorer

Explorer

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Successful creation is all about thinking differently. We celebrate crazy ideas and face challenges head-on to shape better, more innovative products and inspire a better brand.

Learn about our Spirits
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Ernest

Footwear Development, Ho Chi Minh City

Unlike other brands, we aren't just executioners out here in Vietnam, we give ideas as well. Sometimes they have a new idea in Zurich and we might find a process to make it more efficient and we share that.
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What we offer

On is a place that is centered around growth and progress. We offer an environment designed to give people the tools to develop holistically – to stay active, to learn, explore and innovate. Our distinctive approach combines a supportive, team-oriented atmosphere, with access to personal self-care for both physical and mental well-being, so each person is led by purpose.

On is an Equal Opportunity Employer. We are committed to creating a work environment that is fair and inclusive, where all decisions related to recruitment, advancement, and retention are free of discrimination.

Build the better you

What to expect

We want to set everyone up for success, so here’s the lowdown on how we hire. Our process is a two-way street – bringing you into our culture, while helping us learn how you think.

Our full process can last about eight weeks from application to offer, because we care about getting it right. These steps explain how we usually do things.

Before you get started, feel free to consider if you want to work with us. Strange question? Well, we give people a lot of space to navigate their day-to-day and that style isn't for everyone. We want you to be passionate about what you do and be sure this is the right fit. Because when skills and passion combine – it creates that 'Wow' moment.