Lead - Footwear Material

Responsibilities

• Lead and inspire a high-performing team of material sourcing specialists
• Build and maintain robust relationships with material suppliers to align with sourcing, quality, and sustainability goals
• Partner with suppliers to drive efficiencies, optimize costs, and evaluate performance
• Spearhead cross-functional collaborations to address production risks and implement contingencies
• Develop strategic reports to drive material consolidation, enhance KPIs, and reduce lead times
• Oversee material testing processes and implement corrective measures for material-related issues
• Drive material sustainability initiatives and track progress toward goals
• Research market insights, material science advancements, and emerging technologies

Requirements

• Proven experience leading and managing materials teams
• Deep knowledge of footwear product creation and manufacturing processes
• Strong understanding of material supply chains and footwear industry vendor capabilities
• Advanced verbal and written communication skills
• Proficiency in data analysis tools such as Google Suite, Looker, and Hex
• Experience with Centric PLM is a plus
• Ability to work independently and solve problems creatively
• Willingness to travel domestically and internationally
• Fluency in English; fluency in Vietnamese and/or Mandarin is a plus

About the Company

On is a high-growth brand where the Material team acts as the glue between design, development, and product management, translating design visions into performance materials through technical expertise.