On Senior Lead - Engineering Manager (Maternity Cover - 6 months)

Are you an experienced technical leader passionate about product data, distributed systems, and building high-performing, geographically split engineering teams? Join the Operations Technology team and lead a diverse group of Backend Engineers across all experience levels in Berlin and London. Operations Technology is the core engine behind On’s supply chain infrastructure. You will be instrumental in transforming On’s supply chain technology into a strategic competitive advantage by guiding the team's execution and technical strategy. This role requires a unique balance of people leadership, technical direction, and deep stakeholder partnership to architect and amplify the systems that enable On to create efficient, sustainable, and cutting-edge innovation.

Your Mission

Drive the team's roadmap execution, ensuring the work directly fulfills the requirements, by closely collaborating with the PM around the projects, progress, blockers, and risks. Coach, mentor, and manage a diverse team, providing continuous feedback for high performance and growth. Protect the team from unnecessary distractions, allowing engineers to focus on high-impact work. Create an environment for the engineers to make technical decisions by themselves by providing them the context and access to decision making tools. Raise the bar in hiring and grow a diverse team by collaborating with the recruiting, talent team, business partners and other engineering leaders

Your Story

3+ years of experience leading, coaching, and managing split or distributed engineering teams. Strong background in backend development and modern data architecture (event-driven systems, microservices, GraphQL) to effectively guide technical strategy. Exceptional communicator, adept at providing constructive feedback and translating technical strategy to non-technical executives. Ability to see the long-term product data landscape and balance strategic initiatives with tactical priorities. Committed to fostering a safe, collaborative environment where engineers own projects and embrace continuous learning. Hands-on experience with TypeScript/Node.js, Kafka, and GraphQL in a high-volume production environment. A background in retail, or fast-moving consumer goods (FMCG) technology. Experience or strong interest in incorporating AI systems into the software development lifecycle.

Meet The Team

At On, we're all about pushing boundaries - whether in sports, technology, or work culture. You'll be leading a team that values creativity, collaboration, and a drive to make an impact. You will strategically position the entire company for future innovation. You’ll have the autonomy to shape your team and the core systems that underpin our global growth. If you’re ready to lead a diverse, motivated team and turn supply chain technology into a major competitive advantage, we’d love to hear from you!

What We Offer

On is a place that is centered around growth and progress. We offer an environment designed to give people the tools to develop holistically - to stay active, to learn, explore and innovate. Our distinctive approach combines a supportive, team-oriented atmosphere, with access to personal self-care for both physical and mental well-being, so each person is led by purpose. On is an Equal Opportunity Employer. We are committed to creating a work environment that is fair and inclusive, where all decisions related to recruitment, advancement, and retention are free of discrimination.