Director of Innovation Management & Strategy

Location: Zurich

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Innovation

In short

Join On’s Footwear Innovation team as the Director of Innovation Management, where you will lead a dynamic group of technology-affine business developers and technical project managers. Your mission will be to amplify the impact of product innovation by strategically managing the innovation portfolio, process, and long-term vision. This role focuses on leading the Innovation Management team, driving active visioning and strategy creation, and ensuring that our innovation initiatives—from "Big Bets" to our iconic technology franchises—are translated into impactful realities for On.

We are seeking a strategic and results-oriented Director of Innovation Management to lead a critical function within our Innovation department. This role is pivotal in ensuring our innovation efforts are strategically focused, efficiently executed, and prioritized across the organization. You will lead a team of talented professionals to maximize the impact of innovation at On, utilizing a strong foundational understanding of technology and material science to guide the strategic direction of our portfolio and technology brand franchises.

Your Mission

Strategic Leadership:

Develop and implement a comprehensive strategy for Innovation Management, including active visioning and strategy creation, aligning with On's overarching business objectives.
Lead and mentor the Innovation Management team, fostering a collaborative and high-performing environment.
Drive a culture of continuous improvement in innovation processes and strategic portfolio alignment.
Act as the primary link between Innovation and the rest of the company to ensure strategic cohesion.

Innovation Management Leadership:

Ensure Innovation initiatives are strategically aligned with On's overall goals and priorities.
Oversee the management of the Innovation Portfolio, including prioritization, resource allocation, and progress tracking.
Serve as the PMO for "Big Bet" Innovation projects, ensuring high-impact initiatives are executed with excellence.
Lead the continuous improvement and operational excellence of the end-to-end innovation process.
Develop and implement frameworks and tools to enhance the efficiency and effectiveness of innovation activities.

Strategic Technology Alignment:

Manage specific tech brand franchises and oversee the technology roll-out for key innovations such as Superfoam, CloudTec®, and New Propulsion Tech.
Ensure the successful identification and evaluation of new technologies and materials that provide a competitive advantage.
Oversee the strategic technology roadmap, ensuring workstreams are prioritized based on strategic alignment and potential impact.
Collaborate with all technical teams to ensure a smooth horizontal transition of innovations into the product organization.

Cross-Functional Collaboration:

Work closely with all teams in the product organization to ensure alignment and effective collaboration on innovation initiatives.
Communicate effectively with stakeholders at all levels regarding the innovation portfolio, processes, and technology roadmap.
Manage budgets and resources effectively, ensuring optimal utilization.

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Your story

Master's degree in Business Administration, Engineering, Innovation Management, or a related field.
Proven track record of leadership for +10 years in an innovation management or product strategy function, preferably within the sportswear or a similar consumer-facing industry.
Strong foundational understanding of technologies and material science to effectively evaluate innovation potential and manage tech franchises.
Deep understanding of innovation processes, portfolio management, and operational excellence principles.
Demonstrated ability to lead and inspire cross-functional teams and drive strategic visioning.
Excellent strategic thinking, problem-solving, and decision-making skills.
Exceptional communication, presentation, and interpersonal skills.
A strong interest in sports, technology, sustainability, and innovation.

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About the Team

The Innovation team is responsible for On’s future products, out-of-the-box thinking and athlete-informed technology that differentiates On’s products in the market to become the most premium global sportswear brand, built on performance, design and impact. Within the Innovation team, you will lead two highly motivated and skilled teams: Innovation Management and Technology Management. The Innovation Management team focuses on the strategic alignment of innovation initiatives, the effective management of our innovation portfolio, and the continuous improvement of our innovation processes. The Technology Management team is responsible for the successful scaling, implementation, and continuous evolution of our key technologies, ensuring that strategic technology initiatives are driven forward effectively. Together, these teams are crucial in translating bold ideas into impactful realities for On.

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Dina

Footwear Testing Lead

We touch every product that's being made because we bring the connection to the human being. So while everyone's excited about products, materials and colors, we go and say, “okay, so what does this actually do for the human?”

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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.