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

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

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

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

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
• 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