Senior Lead - Footwear Manufacturing

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In short
We are seeking an experienced and dynamic Senior Lead – Footwear Manufacturing to oversee the build-up and ramp-up of a state-of-the-art, fully automated sports shoe manufacturing line in Zurich. This is an exciting opportunity for a senior leader with a passion for innovation and a proven track record in leading manufacturing teams and operating automated production lines. As the Senior Lead, you will play a key role in shaping the future of our manufacturing operations by driving the optimisation of cutting-edge robotics-based technology, processes, and operations.

In short
We are seeking an experienced and dynamic Senior Lead – Footwear Manufacturing to oversee the build-up and ramp-up of a state-of-the-art, fully automated sports shoe manufacturing line in Zurich. This is an exciting opportunity for a senior leader with a passion for innovation and a proven track record in leading manufacturing teams and operating automated production lines. As the Senior Lead, you will play a key role in shaping the future of our manufacturing operations by driving the optimisation of cutting-edge robotics-based technology, processes, and operations.
You will lead a team of machine operators, engineers, and production staff to ensure high-quality, efficient, and scalable production. This role is about more than managing an established production line – it’s about building, scaling, and optimising a new manufacturing process, solving complex challenges, and continuously learning and adapting as we innovate.
Your mission

• Lead the build-up of a fully automated production line for sports shoe manufacturing, ensuring efficient ramp-up, scalability, and consistent output.
• Lead, mentor, and build a high-performance manufacturing team, fostering a collaborative and innovative environment.
• Drive the optimisation of manufacturing processes and technology with a focus on achieving high-quality products, high efficiency, and smooth production flow.
• Collaborate with engineers and technical teams to fine-tune robotic and automation technologies, solving operational challenges and improving production efficiency.
• Develop and implement production strategies that prioritise speed, quality, safety, and cost-efficiency.
• Actively troubleshoot and resolve technical and operational issues during the production ramp-up phase, continuously improving processes and finding innovative solutions.
• Establish best practices for production processes, safety standards, maintenance schedules, and quality control.
• Monitor production performance and KPIs, ensuring consistent output, high-quality standards, and the achievement of production targets.
• Lead continuous learning and knowledge-sharing efforts within the team to ensure everyone is up-to-date with emerging technologies and best practices. Work closely with cross-functional teams (engineering, innovation, logistics, etc.) to align production goals with overall company objectives.
• Drive a culture of innovation and agility, encouraging team members to proactively contribute ideas and improvements.

Your story

• Proven experience in leading manufacturing teams and operations, particularly in automated production lines or robotics-based manufacturing.
• Experience ramping up new manufacturing lines, ideally in high-tech or innovative environments, with a demonstrated ability to solve challenges and drive operational excellence.
• Strong track record in building and scaling manufacturing operations, with expertise in process optimisation, automation, and continuous improvement.
• Entrepreneurial mindset with the ability to creatively tackle complex problems and make quick decisions in a fast-paced environment.
• Excellent leadership and people management skills, able to inspire teams to achieve production targets while maintaining high quality and safety standards.
• Strong technical knowledge of automated manufacturing technologies (e.g., robotics, AI, machine learning) with the ability to quickly adapt to new systems and processes.
• Excellent problem-solving and analytical skills to address both technical and operational challenges efficiently.
• Strong communication skills, with the ability to collaborate effectively with cross-functional teams, stakeholders, and senior leadership.
• Ability to perform well under pressure, manage ambiguity, and handle multiple priorities in a fast-evolving environment.
• Degree in Engineering, Manufacturing, or a related field (or equivalent experience); advanced degree is a plus.
• Excellent written and spoken English skills, and good German knowledge.

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.

Seniority level

• Seniority level

  Mid-Senior level

Employment type

• Employment type

  Full-time

Job function

• Job function

  Management and Manufacturing

• Industries

  Retail

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