Manager Research & Sport Science Innovation Footwear

SPEED & SPIRIT is what we look for in our candidates, defined by some simple values that inspire us to BE DRIVEN in our performance, BE VIBRANT in our sporting legacy, BE TOGETHER in our team spirit, and to let our individual talent and experience shine.

YOUR MISSION

This role contributes PUMA‘s mission to be the fastest sports brand in the world by exploring sports performance opportunities within the creation and evaluation of innovative sport products and concepts.

• Provide with internal and external programs which deliver sports science insights to increase the understanding of the athlete and athlete-product interactions (footwear mainly)
• Utilize scientific expertise to develop and implement protocols that deliver performance insights
• Support research programs with external partners (athletes, universities, sport science experts etc.)
• Develop new validation strategies, including both perception and performance testing
• Manage and execute testing of prototypes and innovative product concepts in close cooperation with other members of the team
• Build product testing reports to further enhance product performance, durability and relevance for athletes and consumers
• Collaborate with the cross-functional innovation team (design, development, project management) to bring new concepts to life via sports science insights which enable an increased performance
• Transfer research and insights into new product ideation with product design and development team.

YOUR TALENT

• University degree in sport science, biomechanics or relevant field
• 2-3 years of work experience in the related field
• Passion for surfacing insights in the field of sport
• Ability to understand scientific and complex information and communicate this to the innovation team
• Ability to educate and train colleagues by sharing knowledge on an on-going basis
• Demonstrate the ability to work independently and within a team atmosphere
• Fluent English is required, German is a plus
• Strong communication skills
• Plan working time efficiently - balancing short term tasks with long term goals
• Strong analytical skills, solution driven and result oriented
• Willingness to travel domestically and internationally (10% of the time)

PUMA provides equal opportunities for all job applicants, regardless of race, color, religion, national origin, sex, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, age, or disability.

Equality for all is one of the core principles at PUMA and we do not tolerate any form of harassment or discrimination.

At PUMA, every application is reviewed by real people who are committed to fairness, transparency, and equal opportunity - no matter your background, identity, or experience.

To ensure our process stays true to these values, no automated systems or AI tools are used to make hiring decisions. Every decision is made by real people -with real judgment and accountability.

We may use functions supported by Artificial Intelligence (AI) to carry out isolated organizational steps, such as scheduling interviews. These functions have no influence on decisions in the application process.

We believe in creating spaces where everyone is welcome, celebrated, and empowered to contribute authentically. Because at PUMA, whoever wants to play, can play.

PUMA is a global sports brand creating footwear, apparel, and accessories that inspire athletes and everyday movers.

The PUMA Group owns PUMA, Cobra Golf, and stichd, operates in 120+ countries, and has around 22,000 employees worldwide.

At PUMA, we are in constant pursuit of faster.

That extends beyond our support of the fastest athletes in the world.

We also work to be fast in how we adapt to and connect with the constantly changing world around us.

Through innovative design, iconic footwear and apparel, and authentic partnerships, we aim to always push what’s next in both sport and culture.

PUMA supports over 21,000 employees across 120+ countries.

The PUMA Group owns the brand PUMA, Cobra Golf and stichd, and is headquartered in Herzogenaurach, Germany.