Two people stand at a worktable in a sewing workshop, examining colorful fabric pieces and garments with sewing machines and materials in the background.

Back to jobs

Lead - Accessories Developer (Technical) Bags

Location: Zurich

Two men smile while discussing fabric and sole prototypes on a table in a bright workspace, with orange gloves in the foreground.

Apparel & Accessories Product Creation

In short

The Lead Accessories Developer - (Technical) Bags will report to the Lead - Accessories Development on the Accessories team supporting the Global Product function. You will be the technical engine behind the bags technical range. Your mission is to translate complex designs into market ready products through expert product development, precise sizing architecture, and superior technical construction.

Your Mission

Deliver exceptional product quality by merging innovative manufacturing techniques with early-stage material explorations to develop novel construction methods.
Partner closely with the Materials team to leverage their early-stage material explorations. Select and apply fabrics, trims, and components based on hard performance data and functional requirements rather than aesthetic appeal alone.
Move beyond standard 2D/3D documentation by physically validating concepts through hands-on prototyping. Build and manipulate physical samples to prove the feasibility and functional logic of new construction methods before engaging external suppliers.
Ensure all early-stage concepts function harmoniously with the human body in motion. Validate fit, sizing, and ergonomics through a biomechanical lens to optimize performance and comfort.
Conduct rigorous testing and risk analysis on new constructions to identify and correct potential failure points before projects transition to the main development cycle.
The "Golden Standard": Create, refine, and enforce a flawless standard for detailed Technical Packages (Tech Packs) and Bill of Materials (BOMs) within the PLM system.
Critical Path Ownership: Manage the overarching product development calendar, tracking milestones closely to ensure the timely delivery of seasonal ranges.
Build and leverage strategic relationships with both domestic and overseas suppliers. Negotiate product costs and implement strict quality assurance practices to optimize margins without compromising the product's integrity.
Work dynamically with manufacturing partners to streamline and improve sample turnaround times, resolving production bottlenecks proactively.
Act as a technical mentor to junior development staff, fostering an environment of continuous learning, technical excellence, and curiosity.
Guide cross-functional teams (Design, Product Management, and Sourcing) to align on product execution and establish strategic external partnerships that introduce new, industry-first market differentiators.

Two women in athletic clothing sit on a bench with takeaway coffee cups, smiling and chatting after a workout.

Your story

Deep Specialization: You bring 10+ years of experience dedicated exclusively to the development of accessories focused on technical bags.
Performance Expertise: You have a proven track record in sports and high-end performance gear, understanding the rigors of athletic use.
Technical Bags and Packs Background: Extensive experience in performance and technical bags and packs is highly desirable.
Multi-Product Mastery: You are an expert in developing varied silhouettes.
Analytical Design: Proficient in translating 2D design concepts into 3D performance realities using advanced PLM systems and Adobe Illustrator.
Global Sourcing: Experience collaborating with world-class manufacturers to push the boundaries of performance textile innovation.
Meticulous attention to detail regarding measurements, tolerances, and material specifications.
A constant drive to explore new yarn technologies and construction methods to solve problems.
A proactive approach to troubleshooting fit and construction issues during the development phase.

Two women in activewear run outdoors, smiling, surrounded by greenery and other runners.

About the Team

You will join a dynamic, cross-functional team dedicated to redefining accessories. We are a group of specialists who value technical rigor, aesthetic elevation, and challenge the Status Quo mindset. Our team operates at the intersection of high-end fashion and elite sport, moving fast to turn innovative ideas into premium products.

Four people work on laptops around a high table in a glass meeting room, while another person walks by outside holding a drink.

A woman focussed on working with fabric on the table in front of her.

Sindy

Apparel Developer

We always look for better decisions, we always listen to people and listen to different colleagues. We listen, we digest, and we find the most suitable one for all the team and everybody benefits. That process makes us really innovative.

Group of people sit and talk at curved concrete benches on a rooftop garden with a city skyline in the background.

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.