Adidas SENIOR DIRECTOR INNOVATION APPAREL M/F/D 

Vietnam, Ho Chi Minh City 

215294966

KEY RESPONSIBILITIES

• Lead the strategic planning and execution of innovative apparel initiatives, including product ideation, research, development, and launch.
• Stay on top of emerging trends, technologies, and materials in the apparel industry, and integrate relevant advancements into product development strategies.
• Close cooperation with all Innovation and partner functions, including Business Units Key Stakeholders to drive strategy, concepts and projects for sport categories and horizontal initiatives.
• Foster a culture of innovation within the apparel incubation team encouraging creativity, risk-taking, and continuous improvement among team members.
• Orchestrate collaboration between design, Development, engineering, science, and manufacturing teams to ensure shared goals, alignment, and seamless execution of innovative projects.
• Establish and maintain strategic partnerships with external vendors, research institutions, and industry experts to enhance innovation capabilities and access new opportunities.
• Oversee the management of budgets, timelines, and resources for apparel innovation projects, ensuring efficient use of resources and timely delivery of results.
• Provide leadership, mentorship, and guidance to a team of cross-functional professionals, fostering their professional growth and development.

KEY RELATIONSHIPS

• Innovation Teams incl. Innovation SLT
• Creative Direction
• Business Units incl. Key Stakeholders
• Sports Marketing, Athlete Servicing and adidas athletes

KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS AND ABILITIES

• Practical experience in the field of textile manufacturing/engineering, including management experience with focus on apparel innovation.
• Comprehensive knowledge in product manufacturing with a clear understanding of the athletics market and its culture.
• Proven track record of success in leading apparel innovation initiatives, with at least 5 years of experience in a senior leadership role within the apparel industry.
• Extensive knowledge of apparel design, materials, manufacturing processes, and industry trends.
• Experience in integrating sustainable practices into apparel product development.
• Exceptional leadership and communication skills, with the ability to inspire and motivate cross-functional teams.
• Strategic thinker with the ability to translate market insights and consumer preferences into innovative product concepts.
• Demonstrated ability to manage complex projects, budgets, and timelines effectively.
• Collaborative mindset with a passion for driving collaboration and fostering a culture of innovation within the organization.

REQUISITE EDUCATION AND EXPERIENCE / MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS

• Bachelor’s degree in Apparel Design, Textile Engineering, Fashion Merchandising, or a related field; advanced degree preferred or equivalent experience.
• Minimum of 10 years of experience in the apparel industry.
• At least 5 years experience of leading teams.