Footwear Testing Specialist (a)

• Swiss company in FMCG
• 12 months contract with extension option

About Our Client ##

For our client, an internationally operating Swiss company in the performance sportswear industry, we are looking for a Footwear Testing Specialist (a) in Zurich. Start is asap, i.e. in October, for next 12 months with an extension option. Hybrid work model.

Job Description ##

As Footwear Testing Specialist (a) you will support the team with the following tasks:

• Lead testing initiatives within Performance Verticals. You will align complex cross-functional teams around unique demands, shaping early-stage concepts that influence our broader category direction.
• Architect rigorous testing protocols that push concepts to their limits. Beyond desk work, you will travel to international training camps capturing real-time feedback.
• Apply psychological principles to refine tester feedback. You will design subjective assessment methods that accurately decode the mindset and emotional reactions of everyone from world-class athletes to large panels of everyday sport enthusiasts.
• Manage end-to-end testing cycles by distilling vast amounts of qualitative and quantitative data. You will translate critical variables into dynamic, visual reports that drive immediate product decisions.
• Act as an embedded, strategic consultant for product creation. You will leverage your expertise to guide Development and Design, ensuring the best world-class testing methodologies are applied.
• Collaborate closely with product creation and Sports Science teams. By correlating your real-world field data with objective lab insights, you will guarantee our footwear achieves foundational excellence in durability, performance and consumer satisfaction.

The Successful Applicant ##

• 3+ years of experience within footwear product testing ideally in the sports industry (not lab but in the field) and passion for sports
• Proven experience conducting product research methodologies such as consumer interviews, focus groups, wear testing, field testing, and product validation studies.
• Strong understanding of physical product development processes and how consumer insights influence product decisions.
• A rigorous, structured, and evidence-based approach to research and testing.
• Demonstrated ability to work independently, take ownership of projects, and drive outcomes with minimal supervision.
• Excellent stakeholder management and communication skills, with the ability to confidently influence senior cross-functional partners.
• Strong analytical capabilities with the ability to transform testing data into clear business recommendations.
• High levels of organisation and project management skills.
• Fluent English communication skills; additional European languages are considered a plus.

What's on Offer ##

• Opportunity to join a globally recognized sportswear and innovation-driven organization.
• High visibility across Product, Design, Development, and Innovation teams.
• International working environment based in Zurich.
• Hybrid work model.

Quote job ref

JN-082026-7086503

Job Function

Engineering & Manufacturing

Specialisation

Test / Application / Commissioning

Industry

FMCG (Fast Moving Consumer Goods)

Where

Zürich

Contract Type

Interim

Job Reference

JN-082026-7086503