Global Product Developer (icebreaker)

icebreaker is looking for an exceptional Global Product Developer, to join our team based in Stabio, Switzerland.

Let’s Talk about the Role

As Global Product Developer, you will be accountable for the execution of icebreaker products through the GTM process from concept to finished goods ensuring alignment with the brand strategy, global business needs, sourcing capabilities and quality standards.

This role plays a critical part in the tactical execution of industry leading product to design intent, collaborating cross functionally with a multi-season time horizon perspective.

A key member of the product creation team you will support and enable the Manager, Global Product Development’s vision on best practices and process, applying technical know-how to turn product concepts into reality to drive business growth.

How You Will Make a Difference

• Concept Translation & Technical Realisation: Work closely with the Design and Merchandising teams to interpret and validate creative concepts to align on align on desired outcome (Style & GM%). Translate them into comprehensive technical specifications and production strategies from capability trials to bulk. Your work will ensure that every idea is effectively translated into products that meet the brand’s strategic and commercial objectives.
• End-to-End Product Excellence: Prepare comprehensive product tech packs that outline specifications, material requirements, sizing, construction details, schematics and quality control protocols. These will serve as the blueprint for manufacturing, ensuring that the design intent is accurately realised in every product. Proactively seek process and manufacturing improvement initiatives with an emphasis on quality and finish to ensure they are continually upgraded, enhanced and the best they can be.
• Cross-Functional Collaboration: Liaise between internal departments (Materials, Design, Technical Design, Merchandising) and external stakeholders (Sourcing, Vendor base & Quality Control). Establish strong working relationships, facilitate transparent communication and collaboration to ensure alignment on product strategies, timelines, and quality benchmarks.
• Project Management: Manage project timelines for assigned seasonal and non-seasonal products, following critical paths to ensure cross functional alignment and on-time delivery of prototype samples, SMS and bulk production across all categories. Use agile methodologies to manage timelines while proactively troubleshooting challenges to keep projects on time, to a high standard of execution and to cost. Support Quality Control in reviewing finished goods against factory held standards.
• Data Management & Reporting: Maintain and regularly update the Product Lifecycle Management (PLM) system with the latest product data on-time according to the required seasonal inputs/outputs; (technical specifications, production timelines, revisions, costings). This rigorous database management ensures seamless communication across the Product Creation and Manufacturing teams.
• Product Costing: Develop and manage cost models towards pre-determined GM% targets for each assigned product. Collaborate and negotiate with the Merchandising and Sourcing teams ensuring all projects meet financial parameters without compromising quality or sustainability. Complete detailed technical specifications in-full and on-time, that enable vendors to execute products efficiently and at cost (SMS & Bulk production).
• Continuous Improvement & Feedback: Analyze market feedback and product performance data to refine existing products and influence future development efforts towards process and performance improvements. Actively seek opportunities for personal growth, with a focus on developing product category knowledge & expertise.

Skills for Success

• Vision: Identify and anticipate emerging trends in outdoor performance and sustainable apparel. Use your forward-thinking approach to develop products that keep icebreaker at the forefront of the industry.
• Values: A commitment to sustainability, ethical production practices, together with a meticulous approach to detail and desire for high-quality execution.
• Expertise: A robust understanding of garment construction, technical specification creation and sustainable product development practices and processes. Proficiency in preparing detailed tech packs and managing PLM systems is essential. Experience preparing detailed product tech packs and managing cost models in a dynamic, innovative environment.
• Collaboration: Demonstrated success working in cross-functional teams. Ability to effectively partner with Merchandisers, Designers, Technical Designers, and external parties to turn creative visions into production-ready realities.
• Communication: Able to articulate technical details and project progress clearly to both technical and non-technical stakeholders, ensuring alignment and transparency throughout the product development cycle. Confident to negotiate with internal and external stakeholders towards pre-determined project objectives.
• Agility: Able to organise and prioritise workload across multi-phase product development projects with an understanding of critical path and process management. Flexibility to work and travel in an international context across regions and associated time zones, at times requiring meeting attendance early mornings or evenings.
• Professionalism: Exceptional time management and good interpersonal skills with an emphasis on embracing an inclusive culture of excellence and respect within the team and across all stakeholder relationships. Deals with conflict and challenges with an objective and calm approach.

Education & Experience

• A University Bachelor or Master’s degree in Product Development, Industrial Design, or equivalent combination of education and experience a related field is required. Advanced degrees or certifications in sustainable production or project management are advantageous.

• Good level of computer literacy is essential; proficient in Microsoft Office & Adobe CC with a good understanding of PLM (Flex, Enovia) solutions.

• A few years of experience in product development and technical roles within the apparel industry. Experience in the outdoor performance or sustainable apparel sector is highly preferred.

About VF

VF is a global apparel company connecting people to the lifestyles they cherish through our family of iconic brands. At the heart of our journey lies our purpose: We power movements of sustainable and active lifestyles for the betterment of people and our planet. This is our purpose. It’s the reason we come to work every day. Our purpose unites us and leads us to pursue our goals, together. This is our calling. Learn more at vfc.com

What’s in it For You

We’re in the business of unleashing human potential, driven by the ideas, energy and commitment of our people. That’s why we offer comprehensive benefits that encourage mental, physical and financial well-being for all VF associates. When it comes to benefits, we’re the total package.

• A supportive feedback-based culture where respect and integrity guide us in what we do

• An inclusive international environment where people of diverse backgrounds, lifestyles and nationalities love working together

• Be part of an iconic lifestyle brand in a multi brand, multi countries organization

• On site gym offering health and well-being initiatives

• A discount card with 50% on all VF brands

• Break out areas offering complimentary hot drinks
   

Free to Be, Inclusion & Diversity 

As a purpose-led, performance driven company, we strive to foster a culture of belonging based on respect, connection, openness and authenticity. We are committed to building and maintaining a workplace that celebrates the diversity of our associates, allowing them to bring their authentic selves to work every day.

As an equal opportunity and affirmative action employer, VF is committed to support disadvantaged groups whilst providing equal opportunities for both VF associates and applicants alike.

If you like what you have read and want to join our team then we would like to hear from you!