Director, Advanced Concepts

Patagonia•Ventura, IA

2d•$203,300 - $225,000•Hybrid

About The Position

The Director of Advanced Concepts plays a critical role in shaping the future of Patagonia product by leading the exploration and development of next-generation product solutions. This role connects deep technical expertise with visionary thinking, translating emerging insights, materials, and technologies into breakthrough concepts that redefine performance and responsible design. Working at the intersection of design, engineering, and research, the Director of Advanced Concepts builds and advances a pipeline of innovation from early discovery through validation and integration into the broader product roadmap. Through close partnership with cross-functional teams and external collaborators, this leader ensures that bold ideas are not only visionary, but actionable and scalable, advancing innovation in a way that is aligned with Patagonia’s commitment to building the best product with the least impact.

Requirements

A degree in Industrial Design, Engineering, Textile Engineering, or equivalent experience
Extensive experience in the creation of highly technical apparel and equipment in an R&D environment
Managing a diverse team of both individual contributors as well as Senior Managers
Strong understanding of operations/project management to implement new processes and manage complex projects
High performance leadership by elevating teams to their capabilities
Deep understanding of manufacturing processes
Ability to create custom calendars and timelines for complex projects
Proficiency with modern product development tools (e.g., CAD, simulation, digital prototyping, 3D software, data capture tools)
Proven track record leading innovation from concept through commercialization
Experience integrating sustainability principles into product innovation
Track record building and leveraging external partnerships (universities, startups, suppliers)

Nice To Haves

Environmental Steward – Deeply committed to protecting our planet through while driving new innovations.
Highly Experienced – Demonstrated success bringing innovative products to market, especially in apparel and equipment.
Innovative Thinker – Strong collaborator with a proven ability to solve complex problems creatively.
Resilient & Self‑Directed – Effectively manages multiple priorities and delivers results in fast‑moving environments.
Adaptable – Flexible and open to pivoting in response to evolving business needs while honoring design intent.
Detail‑Oriented Communicator – Exceptional verbal and written communication skills, including clear and compelling presentations.
Self‑Aware & Inclusive – Reflective and receptive to diverse perspectives; adjusts behaviors to support an inclusive workplace.

Responsibilities

Guide and mentor a high-performing team of Designers, Design Engineers, and Materials Innovation Design to deliver breakthrough product concepts
Manage the process from insights gathering to a prioritized roadmap of innovation projects
Contribute to building the innovation strategy with the team and key cross functional partners
Work with the team to correlate lab testing, in field on body data capture, and user perception to identify gaps and opportunities.
Maintain the Innovation Roadmap and present it to key stakeholders at internal stage gates
Drive cross-functional alignment to ensure projects integrate into product calendars and commercialization pathways
Manage budgets, external contracts, grants, and NDAs in collaboration with legal and finance partners
Protect and advance intellectual property in coordination with internal legal teams
Collaborate with key stake holders from Design, Materials Development, Materials Quality, Product Impact, Sourcing, Business Unit Directors, and Commercialization
Establish and manage partnerships with external organizations, including research institutions, universities, startups, and suppliers
Monitor and translate emerging trends and technologies from adjacent industries into actionable innovation opportunities
Deliver operational excellence with both internal teams and external organizations
Maintain updated status documentation of all projects including risk and readiness levels
Identify and prioritize white space opportunities across product categories and emerging consumer needs
Embed circularity, low-impact materials, and regenerative design principles into early-stage concept development