Director, Advanced Concepts

About the role

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.

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 stakeholders 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

Requirements

• Environmental Steward – Deeply committed to protecting our planet through while driving new innovations
• 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

Qualifications

• 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)

Skills

• Strong problem-solving and analytical skills
• Excellent project management and organizational skills
• Effective communication and collaboration abilities
• Ability to work independently and as part of a team
• Knowledge of sustainable materials and design principles

Benefits

• Medical, dental, vision, retirement and leave of absence plans

Pay

Hiring Range: $203,300-$225,000 USD Annual

Schedule

This position is Hybrid, with a standard schedule of Tuesday - Thursday on-site and remote work on other days. Occasional additional office visits may be required for team events or critical meetings.