Head of Research & Development (Hardware)

ABOUT THE ROLE
As the Head of R&D Hardware, you will lead the daily work within the team and have oversight of a team of four consisting of designers, junior designers, and design assistants. Your role will involve collaborating with the Global Creative Director and Global Product Director to plan and manage development projects. Working with the R&D Hardware team you will also ensure our products are developed in a responsible and sustainable way through creating innovative solutions for the increased function, reduction environmental impact and long service life.
This full-time role is located in Solna, and will report directly to the Global Product Director, Donna Bruns.
WHAT YOU WILL DO
Taking part in market research needs/ analysis from different parts of the company.
Together with the R&D team, take projects from idea/concept level to products and range.
Contribute to the creation of design briefs for upcoming launches.
Develop products according to the seasonal plan with relevant margins for all products.
In dialogue with the purchasing manager, ensure efficient and logical use of suppliers, materials, and trims.
Responsible for the R&D Hardware department's budget.
Develop, improve, and ensure efficient and clear processes for the R&D hardware team.
Synchronize product developments with the purchasing department and insure smooth communication and accountability with the central material and production departments.
Synchronize product launch plans with marketing and sales department.
Monitor and quality assure the products' durability, function, quality, cost, and design.
Create and maintain quality assurance standards for design and product development.
Create and run/delegate development projects that operationally meet future needs/opportunities.
Ensure that new developments take place in line with Fjällräven Int's marginal requirements. This is synchronized with the purchasing manager.
Be up to date with Fjällräven's development in all global markets, participate in relevant fairs and key stakeholder meetings.
Responsible for ensuring that R&D always contributes with good and relevant service within the company.



WHO YOU ARE
You are an experienced leader with exceptional people management skills and the ability to move and inspire cross-functional teams to get the most out of their skills. You are self-motivated with a drive to take initiative, make decisions and generate action. Problem solving is part of your nature and you proactively look for the root causes of issues to identify the best solution as well as bring a solution orientated and positive mindset to the workplace. Your strong written and verbal English communication will allow you to successfully convey and present information.
You also have:
Strong stakeholder management skills – ability to listen, interpret and influence key stakeholders to build consensus on design development.
Keen to travel internationally several times a year.
Minimum five years of work experience in Design/Development or equivalent.
3+ years' experience of leading teams of 5+ people.
Proven ability to create functional and commercial designs, as well as a profound knowledge of Backpack, Tent, Sleeping bag construction, patterns, and textiles.
Used to, and have a strong track record of, delivering according to planned schedules and milestones in time.
Experience from managing budgets.
Good knowledge of sustainability where it applies to product development.
Knowledgeable of the outdoor market and products.
Strong cultural understanding and knowledge of Fjällräven's target users.
Good knowledge of material development, construction, fabric behavior, properties, and performance related to function and different applications.
Strong commercial and business understanding.
Knowledge, understanding and big interest of developing products in a responsible and sustainable way (CSR)
Higher degree in Design (Apparel, Industrial, or Textile Engineering).
Experienced in planning field testing of products and materials in development. Both for lab evaluation (wind tunnel, ISO 23537-1, etc) and field testing of test samples in development.



ABOUT US
At Fenix Outdoor, we create life-altering experiences in nature through providing a full range of products and specialty outdoor retail stores across several countries. Our company enables people to enjoy life outside.
We're a team of nature lovers, some more experienced than others, and we enjoy being outside. Whether in a city park or climbing the peak of a mountain, sustaining the world we live in is a top priority in what we do. After all, our business is nature.
HOW TO APPLY
Up for the challenge? Start your adventure with us and apply via email today! We are reviewing applications on a continuous basis, our ad may close earlier than expected.
Fenix Outdoor celebrates diversity and is committed to continually striving to create and grow a diverse and inclusive workplace for all employees. We provide equal employment opportunities without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, disability, genetics, sexual orientation, gender identity or gender expression. We aim to facilitate a safe, fair and kind work environment where all feel welcome and can thrive.