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Senior Lead - Construction, EMEA (FTC - Maternity Cover)
Location: Zurich
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In short
This role is a 1 year fixed-term contract / maternity cover - optionally, converting into a permanent role.
We are seeking a highly motivated and experienced Senior Lead - Construction, EMEA, to play a pivotal role in shaping the future of On's EMEA Real Estate & Development team. Based in our headquarters in Zurich, you will be instrumental in delivering exceptional Retail & Wholesale as well as Workplace projects that reflect On's innovative spirit and brand vision.
As a Senior Lead - Construction, EMEA, you will be a strategic and hands-on leader, responsible for the end-to-end execution of high-profile, regional projects focused on the growing footprint of On physical environments. You will manage, tutor and mentor a team of Development Managers through all phases of development, from initial feasibility studies to construction oversight and final handover, ensuring projects are delivered on time, within budget, and to the highest quality standards.
Your Mission
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Spearhead Retail, Wholesale, Franchise, Showroom and Workplace development projects: Lead the end-to-end execution of all On's construction within the EMEA Region, ensuring alignment with On's brand vision and strategic objectives.
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Shape the Future of DTC, B2B & On Labs: Contribute to the strategic vision of On's real estate portfolio, translating concepts into tangible, innovative, and inspiring spaces.
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Drive Project Excellence: Oversee all phases of development, with strong focus in construction, from initial feasibility studies and design development to construction management and final handover, ensuring projects are delivered on time, within budget, and to the highest quality standards.
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Cultivate Stakeholder Collaboration: Foster strong partnerships with internal teams, external consultants, architects, contractors, and local authorities, ensuring alignment and effective communication throughout the project lifecycle.
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Champion Operational Efficiency: Implement and manage efficient project management processes, including scheduling, budgeting, risk mitigation, and vendor management, to optimize project delivery and resource allocation.
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Ensure Quality and Compliance: Guarantee adherence to building codes, safety regulations, and On's design specifications, conducting thorough quality control checks throughout the project lifecycle.
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Foster Innovation and Sustainability: Integrate innovative design solutions and sustainable practices into development projects, contributing to On's commitment to environmental responsibility.
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Your story
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Seasoned Project Leader: You possess min. 10+ years of experience in managing complex architecture and construction projects, including retail, workplace, or other intricate developments. You have a proven track record of directly managing bidding and negotiation with contractors, ensuring competitive pricing and successful project execution. You have mentored and led store development teams for EMEA.
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Project Management Expertise: You demonstrate a strong ability to manage projects from inception to completion, encompassing all aspects from defining scope and managing resources to mitigating risks and ensuring on-time and on-budget delivery.
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Innovation and Adaptability: You thrive in environments that push boundaries and embrace new approaches. You are comfortable working on "groundbreaking" projects for the brand, demonstrating a willingness to explore innovative solutions and adapt to evolving circumstances.
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Critical Thinker and Problem-Solver: You possess sharp analytical skills, enabling you to assess information, identify challenges, and develop creative solutions. You excel at synthesizing diverse requests and finding common ground among stakeholders.
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Design Advocate: You have a strong appreciation for design and understand how to maintain high design standards throughout the project lifecycle. You recognize the importance of premium design in reflecting On's brand identity.
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Organized and Efficient: You possess exceptional organizational skills, enabling you to manage multiple projects simultaneously, prioritize tasks effectively, and maintain meticulous records.
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Team Player: You are a collaborative team player who thrives in a dynamic environment. You actively contribute to team goals, share knowledge, support colleagues, and foster a positive and productive work atmosphere.
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Excellent Communicator: You are fluent in English, with strong written and verbal communication skills. Fluency in another language is an advantage, particularly German, given primary projects at OnLabs in Zurich.
About the Team
The EMEA Real Estate and Development team is a powerhouse of expertise, uniting a multi-disciplinary group of leasing, design, construction, and facilities management professionals across all channels (DTC, DMS, B2B, Showrooms, and Workplace). We thrive in a dynamic, forward-thinking environment, fuelled by a shared passion for creating exceptional spaces that embody On's innovative spirit and global aspirations.
As Senior Lead - Construction, EMEA, you'll be a pivotal collaborator within this team, working closely with diverse stakeholders to drive the expansion and growth. You will shape the strategic vision of Retail, Wholesale and OnLabs 2026, and lead internal & external project management consultants in On's complex and high-profile expansion, bridging internal and external expertise. You will play a key role in delivering impactful projects, championing excellence, and contributing to the growth and innovation of the On team.
Join us and become a key architect of On's future. Help shape the architecture, behavior, and culture of the On community by crafting inspiring, connected spaces. With an exciting pipeline of ambitious projects, we're seeking a high-performing individual to contribute to our global growth story.
Patrick
Head of Logistics for EMEA
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.
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.