Sr Manager Materials Development Footwear - Statement

POSITION OVERVIEW

At adidas, we never launch a product unless we consider it perfect.

Our product creation teams bring craftsmanship and precision to every footwear product, translating innovative concepts into tangible experiences for athletes and consumers worldwide. Materials are at the core of this process, shaping performance, aesthetics, and sustainability outcomes across every category.

As Senior Manager Materials Development Footwear, you play a critical role in driving the end to end material strategy and execution. You ensure the availability of innovative, high quality materials that align with design direction, sourcing strategy, and commercial objectives while meeting strict calendar timelines and cost targets.

You will operate as a strategic connector across design, development, sourcing, and supplier partners. Your leadership will influence product excellence, improve operational efficiency, and strengthen adidas' ability to deliver premium footwear at scale.

KEY RESPONSIBILITIES

Material Strategy Leadership: Serve as the primary consultant for all material related topics, guiding cross functional teams through material selection, consolidation, and strategic decision making.

Cross Functional Alignment: Lead discussions across design, product development, sourcing, and quality teams to ensure alignment on material direction and execution.

Material Development Execution: Drive seasonal material development processes, ensuring timely delivery, cost alignment, and adherence to quality standards.

Supplier Management: Identify and manage Tier 2 suppliers to develop innovative materials that meet design vision and commercial requirements.

Data and Systems Management: Ensure accuracy and availability of material data within internal systems and develop reporting tools to support faster decision making.

Risk Management: Analyze material related risks across categories and lead proactive mitigation strategies including supplier or material changes.

Process Improvement: Lead continuous improvement initiatives across material development processes and drive global standardization and efficiency.

Material Library Optimization: Oversee consolidation and maintenance of the material library to enable cross functional sharing and improved utilization.

Innovation and Trend Research: Gather and translate market insights, supplier input, and industry trends into actionable material strategies for business units.

Stakeholder Collaboration: Partner with IT and horizontal teams to align systems, tools, and processes with evolving material development needs.

Timeline Ownership: Create and manage material timelines and ensure alignment with product creation calendars and key milestones.

Team Leadership: Support and mentor team members while fostering technical expertise and development within the materials function.

REQUIRED QUALIFICATIONS

* Bachelor's degree in engineering, textile engineering, chemical engineering, or related field, or equivalent combination of education and experience

* Minimum 4 years of experience in material development or a related field

* Strong knowledge of footwear creation processes and material applications

* Experience working with cross functional teams and global stakeholders

* Ability to manage multiple projects and priorities in a fast paced environment

* Strong communication, influencing, and problem solving skills

* Proficiency in Microsoft Office and material data systems

* English language proficiency required

PREFERRED EXPERIENCE

* Experience working with Tier 1 and Tier 2 suppliers within global sourcing environments

* Exposure to material innovation, sustainability initiatives, or advanced creation processes

* Familiarity with 3D product creation tools and digital development workflows

* Experience leading process improvement or transformation initiatives

* Background in material cost negotiation and supplier development

WORK ENVIRONMENT

This role operates in a hybrid work environment based in Los Angeles, California, with in office presence expected Monday through Thursday and remote flexibility on Fridays. The position requires collaboration across global teams and functions, with regular interaction with international partners and suppliers. Domestic and international travel may be required to support development, supplier engagement, and cross functional alignment.

REPORTING STRUCTURE

This role reports into the Materials Development leadership organization and works closely with cross functional partners across Design, Product Development, Sourcing, Quality, and Product Operations. The position interacts regularly with global creation centers, supplier networks, and IT stakeholders while contributing to broader organizational initiatives and strategic programs.

COMPENSATION & BENEFITS

The anticipated base salary range for this position is $132,000 to $155,000.

Actual compensation will be determined based on experience, qualifications, skills, and competencies relevant to the role.

This position is eligible for an annual bonus based on individual and company performance.

* Comprehensive medical coverage including HSA with employer funding or FSA options, dental, vision, and prescription plans.

* Adoption, surrogate, and fertility support programs.

* Short and long term disability coverage.

* Basic life and AD and D insurance with supplemental employee paid options.

* 401(k) plan and Stock Purchase Plan with employer match.

* Education assistance for eligible full time employees.

* 12 weeks of paid parental leave and generous leave policies.

* Flexible time off accrued at 0.4388 hours per day, increasing with tenure.

* Twelve paid holidays plus milestone Service Time Off.

* Employee product discounts and access to wellness programs.

DIVERSITY, EQUITY & INCLUSION

Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion at adidas means championing individual uniqueness and cultivating a culture of belonging where everyone can perform at their best.

We embrace diverse backgrounds, experiences, and perspectives and are committed to building teams that reflect the consumers and communities we serve.

We are an equal opportunity employer and encourage applications from all qualified individuals regardless of race, color, religion, sex, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, national origin, disability, or veteran status.