Director, Product Development & Engineering - HOKA Innovation

Deckers Brands•Portland, OR

1d•Hybrid

About The Position

As Director, Product Development and Engineering – HOKA Innovation, you will lead the product operations function within HOKA Innovation, driving engineering, product development, advanced technology creation, product testing, and local prototyping. Your leadership will deliver innovative footwear and apparel concepts, as well as advanced technologies across components, materials, and manufacturing methods. As a key member of the HOKA Innovation leadership team, you will help shape future product direction and serve as the primary operational link between the Portland-based team, Asia Innovation, and strategic development and technology partners. We celebrate diversity--of your background, your experiences and your unique identity. We are committed to ensuring an inclusive and equitable workplace where all of our employees can Come as They Are. We believe that when we bring our different perspectives to work, we are truly Better Together.

Requirements

Experienced leader with 12+ years in footwear and/or apparel product development within a global organization.
Demonstrated expertise in technical product creation, including engineering, materials, manufacturing methods, and product testing.
4+ years of people leadership experience, managing and developing technical teams and/or complex cross-functional programs.
Proven track record of delivering innovative product and technology outcomes.
Skilled in working with global development partners, including Asia-based innovation, development, and manufacturing teams.
Deep technical knowledge of footwear and/or apparel construction, materials, and manufacturing processes.
Strong capability in product engineering, prototyping, and test-and-learn development methodologies.
Strategic thinker able to translate innovation vision into executable roadmaps and development plans.
Effective cross-functional leader with strong communication and stakeholder management skills.
Embody Deckers global leadership competencies: Demonstrate Authenticity, Champion Diverse, Effective Teams, Dive Strategy, Cultivate Innovation, Deliver Results, Build Connection.

Responsibilities

Lead an industry-class innovation engineering and development competency, setting the standard for product build, engineering, and proactive problem solving.
Enable the broader innovation team to build, learn, and grow through physical sampling.
Manage, motivate, and progress an expert technical team.
Create and manage advanced technology roadmaps and project portfolios, aligning technology projects with innovation and business needs.
Scout and onboard advanced technology vendors into the Deckers supply chain.
Manage Innovation Product Testing as a central part of the innovation process, championing bespoke test methods and leveraging Deckers Advanced Research Center and external partners.
Build and manage the Portland Maker Space to inspire product teams and accelerate creation, integrating industry best practices in rapid prototyping.