Join On's Innovation team as the Director of Sports Science & Engineering, leading a dynamic, interdisciplinary group of scientists and engineers. You will drive cutting-edge advancements in sports performance by merging deep scientific understanding with advanced engineering principles. This role encompasses directing Sports Science, focusing on athlete-focused physiological and biomechanical research, and Sports Engineering, centered on developing revolutionary bottom unit systems through CAE and emerging technologies. You'll be pivotal in translating scientific insights into groundbreaking product innovations, pushing the boundaries of athletic performance

Strategic Leadership:

• Develop and implement a comprehensive strategy for Sports Science and Sports Engineering, aligning with On's overall innovation goals
• Lead and mentor two distinct teams: Sports Science and Sports Engineering, fostering a culture of innovation, collaboration, and excellence guided by our spirits
• Direct and oversee research programs in physiology and biomechanics, leveraging academic collaborations and advanced scientific testing.Generate actionable athlete-focused insights that inform product development and innovation
• Establish and maintain strong relationships with leading academic institutions and research partners
• Oversee the collection and analysis of athlete performance data, translating findings into product requirements
• Lead the conceptualization and development of novel bottom unit systems for various sports applications
• Drive the integration of scientific insights, functional know-how, and CAE (Computer-Aided Engineering) into the product development process
• Explore and implement emerging technologies and materials in novel concepts to enhance product performance
• Democratize CAE by improving workflows and making it accessible to the wider product organization
• Cross-Functional Collaboration:
• Collaborate closely with the full product organization and marketing to ensure seamless integration of scientific and engineering insights into product development and storytelling
• Communicate complex scientific and engineering concepts effectively to diverse audiences
• Manage budgets and resources effectively, ensuring optimal utilization

Your story

• Advanced degree (Ph.D. preferred) in Sports Science, Biomechanics, Mechanical Engineering, or a related field
• Proven track record of leadership for +10 years in a sports science and/or engineering environment, preferably within the sportswear industry
• Extensive experience in physiological and biomechanical research, with a strong understanding of athlete performance
• Strong understanding of CAE, material science, and product development processes
• Demonstrated ability to lead and inspire interdisciplinary teams
• Excellent communication, presentation, and interpersonal skills
• Passion for sports and a deep understanding of athletic performance
• Experience with data analysis tools and software
• Experience in managing external research and collaboration projects

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. Within the Innovation team you will lead the Sports Science and Engineering team which is focused on research, advanced product evaluation, computer aided engineering and concept engineering around our performance footwear. You will have the opportunity to be part of an agile and interdisciplinary department of engineers, scientists and designers. We foster a fast-paced environment with direct decision making and the freedom to design projects and processes

Just by the banks of the Limmat you’ll find our largest global hub in Zürich West – On Labs – where you can hike up 12 floors through our custom-built spiral trail

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
• 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

Ready to dig into the details?This second interview will be held with your future manager and will focus on the specifics of the job. Together you’ll delve into your unique skills and experiences and how they could be relevant at On. It's also a time to assess how you might feel working side-by-side. Bring any questions you have about the job, the team or anything else you might like to know – this is an open forum

Are we a good fit?We’ll get together internally to share our feedback and decide if we’re a match. We know that job searching is a big time investment, so it’s not a decision we take lightly. It’s also time for you to reflect on the experience – are we the right place for you?No matter the outcome, we’ll give you meaningful feedback

You'll start by submitting your application to a specific role