On - Director of Innovation Management & Strategy - Zürich

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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.

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.

Meet 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.