Head of Product Development and Materials

ph3Job title /h3 /brpbHead of Product Development and Materials /b (Job Number: R- ) /p /br /brh3Department /h3 /brpProduct Supply Chain /p /br /brh3Location /h3 /brpStabio, Switzerland /p /br /brh3Your Role /h3 /brpNapapijri is looking for an exceptional Head of Product Development and Materials to join our Product team based in Stabio, Switzerland. /p /brpFor over 30 years, Napapijri has pioneered the future of fashion. From our Italian beginnings, innovating outdoor apparel in the shadow of Monte Bianco, to tackling nature’s most challenging environments on polar expeditions, our desire to lead the way is what makes us who we are. /p /brpbLet's Talk about the Role /b /p /brpYou will boversee the apparel development organization /b, ensuring that seasonal brand direction, business priorities, sourcing capabilities, and quality standards are fully aligned. This position requires both strategic vision and hands‑on execution, guiding the product creation calendar to consistently deliver against design intent, quality, margin, and timeline expectations. /p /brpYou will binspire and lead your team /b, providing coaching and guidance to drive departmental and brand success. As Director of Product Development and Materials, you will bcollaborate closely with leaders in Design, Merchandising, Sourcing, and Innovation /b to maximize efficiency in calendar adherence, margin performance, product quality, and delivery outcomes. /p /brpBeyond execution, byou will play a pivotal role in shaping business growth by developing product category strategies /b across seasons and channels, aligned with brand objectives, sourcing capabilities, and quality standards. Partnering with key stakeholders, you will identify opportunities to expand commercial growth through a comprehensive and balanced product offering. /p /brpbHow You Will Make a Difference /b /p /brul /brliDrive product category strategies by season and channel, aligned with business objectives and growth targets. /li /brliBuild, lead, and manage Product Development and Material strategies, ensuring effective implementation across teams and vendors. /li /brliDefine and manage the operating budget for the department, balancing innovation with cost efficiency. /li /brliPartner with leaders in Design, Merchandising, Sourcing, Innovation, Operations, and Commercial functions to maximize efficiency, margin, quality, and delivery rates. /li /brliImplement and monitor product development programs, including raw material commercialization, fit, calendar, and color adherence. /li /brliLead brand product innovation through continuous research into new materials, technologies, and product functionalities. /li /brliDrive the creative cycle by providing trend guidelines to Design, Material, and Merchandising teams. /li /brliEnsure accuracy and integrity of product specifications throughout the development process. /li /brliUnderstand and analyze global market trends, shifts, drivers, and downturns to inform product strategies. /li /brliProvide insights and feedback to Product, Merchandising, Sales, and Marketing teams to continuously improve product plans and go‑to‑market tools. /li /brliLeverage the brand DNA of style and sustainability to meet relevant consumer trends and expectations. /li /brliEnsure team compliance with seasonal timeline milestones, recommending and sharing calendar adjustments as needed. /li /brliManage the seasonal product workflow in alignment with GTM timelines. /li /brliCollaborate with sourcing teams on vendor allocation, pricing challenges, and production issues to optimize outcomes. /li /brliDeliver targets in gross margin, efficiency, effectiveness, and cost savings during development and GTM stages. /li /brliLead, coach, and develop Product Development and Materials teams (10+ members), fostering collaboration and high performance. /li /brliUnlock and build digital product creation processes. /li /brliChampion a culture of innovation, accountability, and continuous improvement. /li /br /ul /brpbSkills for Success /b /p /brul /brliExtended and solid experience in Product Development in a medium or large sized apparel company. /li /brliStrong knowledge of product development processes including design, costing, manufacturing and sourcing, preferably with Asian based production and cut/sewn category. /li /brliStrong project planning and management skills, ability to develop and manage multiple timelines and deadlines. /li /brliExperience with Product Data Management systems (e.g., Enovia) preferred. /li /brliCreates a strong, collaborative and supportive work culture where people can achieve objectives and fulfil their job expectations. /li /br /ul /brpbWhat’s in it For You /b /p /brul /brliA supportive feedback-based culture where respect and integrity guide us in what we do. /li /brliAn inclusive international environment where people of diverse backgrounds, lifestyles and nationalities love working together. /li /brliBe part of an iconic lifestyle brand in a multi‑brand, multi‑country organization. /li /brliOn‑site gym offering health and well‑being initiatives. /li /brliA discount card with 50% on all VF brands. /li /brliBreakout areas offering complimentary hot drinks. /li /br /ul /brpbFree to Be, Inclusion Diversity /b /p /brpAs a purpose‑led, performance‑driven company, we foster a culture of belonging based on respect, openness, connection, and authenticity. We celebrate diversity and support equal opportunities for all associates and applicants. /p /brpR- /p /p #J-18808-Ljbffr