Senior Global Product Developer (icebreaker)

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

Driven by the belief that nature has the answers, we provide natural performance alternatives to synthetic-based apparel, to create a healthier and more sustainable future for our species and the planet. We're passionate about connecting people to natural alternatives.

Let’s Talk about the Role

As Senior Product Developer - icebreaker, you’ll take ownership of development execution for your assigned products through the go-to-market (GTM) process, from concept to finished goods. You will ensure alignment with the brand strategy, global business needs, sourcing capabilities and quality standards.

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

As a key contributor to the product creation team, you will execute the end-to-end product development process against critical project timelines and support best practices and process improvements. You will act as a technical coach, sharing expertise and supporting colleagues in solving development challenges. Working collaboratively with cross-functional partners, you will turn product concepts into reality to drive business growth.

How You Will Make a Difference

End-to-End Product Excellence:

Collaborate with Designers and Fit and Pattern Specialists to translate creative concepts into finished products. Prepare and review comprehensive product tech packs covering material requirements, sizing, construction details and schematics, incorporating specialist input and providing technical coaching to colleagues. Use performance data to drive product, process and manufacturing improvements across the Product Development function, with an emphasis on continually improving quality and finish.

Cross-Functional Collaboration:

Be a central communication hub between internal departments (Materials, Innovation, Design, Technical Design, Merchandising, Supply Planning) 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.

Process & Critical Path Management

Develop and maintain detailed timelines for seasonal and non-seasonal product development. Identify and track critical-path milestones to align cross-functional partners and support the on-time delivery of prototype samples, salesman samples (SMS) and bulk production across the relevant categories. Use agile methodologies to coordinate development activities, identify and mitigate risks, and escalate issues that threaten delivery or quality.

Data Management & Reporting

Ensure relevant functional components of the Product Lifecycle Management (PLM) system are meticulously maintained and updated on-time according to the required seasonal inputs/outputs. Uphold standard operating procedures to ensure database integrity and data accuracy across all product lines facilitating seamless, on-time communication between the Product Development, Design, Merchandising, and Sourcing teams.

Stakeholder Management:

Build strong sourcing and vendor relationships to ensure timely and accurate execution of sampling and production. Report directly to the Global Head of Product Development on deliverables, risks and improvements.

Skills for Success

Product judgement: Translate relevant market trends in sustainable outdoor performance apparel into practical development recommendations. Apply forward-thinking technical solutions that support icebreaker’s product direction and keep its products at the forefront of the industry.

Values: A commitment to sustainability, ethical production practices, together with a meticulous approach to ensuring high-quality execution in every aspect of product development.

Expertise: Apply in-depth knowledge of garment construction, technical specification creation and sustainable product development to translate creative ideas into scalable products and resolve development challenges. Prepare detailed tech packs, maintain accurate technical documentation and manage PLM data throughout the product lifecycle. Share this expertise through practical coaching and support for colleagues.

Collaboration: Foster a collaborative environment by building strong relationships across all functional teams. Your ability to effectively communicate and coordinate with Merchandisers, Designers, Fit and Pattern Specialists, and external partners will be key to success.

Communication: Excellent at facilitating effective collaboration and negotiation between internal and external stakeholders. Comfortable acting as a liaison between diverse groups, ensuring that project requirements and updates are clearly conveyed and that both technical and non-technical stakeholders are well-informed and aligned on project objectives.

Agility: Demonstrated ability to organise and prioritise, 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 strong interpersonal skills with an emphasis on building a cohesive and inclusive culture of excellence and respect within the team and across all stakeholder relationships. Manage conflict and work through challenges with an objective and calm approach.

Stakeholder Collaboration: Develop and maintain strong relationships with sourcing partners and external vendors. Share regular updates with relevant stakeholders on your progress against the critical path, process improvements, and cross-functional initiatives.

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.

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

5-7 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.

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

Relocation support may be available to applicants who lives more than 100 km from Stabio.

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!

About Us

MORE THAN A JOB, AN ADVENTURE

WHEN YOU JOIN ICEBREAKER YOU JOIN A COMMUNITY

We’re a community of passionate, authentic and adventurous achievers bringing quality, performance apparel to the world, ethically and sustainably.

In 1995 we pioneered the merino performance apparel industry from New Zealand’s windy little capital. Today, we’re a global brand with teams in NZ, Australia, USA, Canada, Germany, France and Switzerland. Together we’re pushing the boundaries of natural fiber and stocking more than 5000 stores across 50 countries. To learn more about Icebreaker, click here.

If you’ve got what it takes to join our team, explore our opportunities.