Senior Specialist - Footwear Material Leather

Responsibilities

• Partner with Zurich HQ to commercialize new leathers and material innovations
• Establish grading, testing, and cutting parameters for new leather programs
• Support the implementation of new leather techniques across collections
• Participate in material trials, evaluations, and approvals
• Ensure T1 factories maintain company quality and aesthetic standards
• Evaluate leather selection, grading, cutting, and utilization practices
• Resolve leather quality issues with T1 factories, including replacements or recutting
• Collaborate with leather suppliers to address production impact concerns
• Visit T1 factories and T2 suppliers to educate teams on testing, grading, and utilization
• Drive continuous improvement initiatives with suppliers
• Partner with Costing Team to ensure accurate leather waste factors
• Monitor leather utilization and support material optimization
• Build the leather core board and establish leather manual processes
• Onboard new tanneries

Requirements

• 5+ years of experience in leather sourcing, quality, product development, or material management in footwear or accessories
• Strong technical understanding of leather grading, tanning, cutting, testing, and manufacturing
• Experience working with tanneries, factories, and external partners across Asia
• Knowledge of footwear construction and material applications preferred
• Strong problem-solving, communication, and supplier management skills
• Ability to manage multiple projects in a fast-paced environment
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office, PowerPoint, and material tracking systems
• Willingness to travel frequently

About the Company

On is a place that is centered around growth and progress, offering an environment designed to help people develop holistically through innovation and a supportive, team-oriented atmosphere.