Intern - Performance Outdoor Product Strategy

📍 Job Overview

Job Title: Intern - Performance Outdoor Product Strategy

Company: On

Location: Zurich, Switzerland

Job Type: Intern

Category: Product Strategy / Operations

Date Posted: May 29, 2026

Experience Level: Entry-Level (0-2 years)

Remote Status: On-site

🚀 Role Summary

• This internship focuses on supporting the Product Outdoor team by managing seasonal product samples and coordinating team events, ensuring smooth operational workflows.

• The role involves maintaining the accuracy and currency of product information systems, critical for internal tracking and external communications.

• A key responsibility will be conducting in-depth market research and consumer analysis specifically within the global hiking sector to uncover strategic opportunities.

• The intern will facilitate cross-functional collaboration, working closely with peers in product testing, design, development, and strategy to drive cohesive product initiatives.

📝 Enhancement Note: While the title is "Product Strategy," the core responsibilities heavily lean into operational support, sample management, and data gathering, making this role a strong fit for aspiring operations professionals with an interest in product. The "Intern" designation suggests a focus on foundational operations tasks and learning.

📈 Primary Responsibilities

• Sample Management: Organize, distribute, and meticulously track seasonal product samples for both internal team meetings and external partner engagements, ensuring all stakeholders have access to necessary materials.

• Event Coordination: Assist in the comprehensive scheduling, planning, and creative execution of Product Outdoor team offsites and workshops, fostering collaboration and innovation.

• System Maintenance: Ensure that product information systems are consistently accurate, up-to-date, and readily accessible, supporting efficient product lifecycle management.

• Market & Consumer Analysis: Conduct deep-dive research and analysis into the global hiking market, identifying emerging trends, competitive landscapes, and potential consumer opportunities to inform product strategy.

• Cross-Functional Collaboration: Actively engage and collaborate with team members across product testing, design, development, and product strategy peers to ensure alignment and drive collective success.

📝 Enhancement Note: The responsibilities highlight a blend of administrative operations (sample tracking, event coordination) and foundational analytical operations (market research, consumer analysis). The emphasis on "driving work forward and solving ambiguous problems" points to an expectation of proactive task management and problem-solving, typical in operations roles.

🎓 Skills & Qualifications

Education: Pursuing or holding a Bachelor's degree in Marketing, Communications, Design, Sports Science, or a closely related field.

Experience: While this is an internship, prior experience in project coordination, market research, or administrative support roles will be advantageous. A demonstrable passion for outdoor performance activities is key.

Required Skills:

• Market Research & Analysis: Ability to gather, analyze, and synthesize information on market trends and consumer behavior, particularly within the outdoor industry.

• Project Coordination: Skills in organizing tasks, managing timelines, and ensuring the smooth execution of projects, such as sample distribution and event planning.

• Presentation Skills: Competency in clearly and effectively communicating findings and ideas, both verbally and visually.

• Problem-Solving: Aptitude for tackling ambiguous challenges and driving work forward with a proactive approach.

• Collaboration: Proven ability to work effectively with diverse teams and stakeholders across different functions.

• Passion for Outdoor Performance: Genuine interest and knowledge in outdoor activities like hiking and trail running.

Preferred Skills:

• Google Suite Proficiency: Demonstrated experience and comfort using Google Workspace tools (Docs, Sheets, Slides) for documentation, analysis, and presentations.

• Product Strategy Acumen: Foundational understanding of product development cycles and strategic planning within the consumer goods or apparel industry.

• Sample Management Systems: Familiarity with processes or systems for tracking and managing physical product samples.

📝 Enhancement Note: The "Your story" section implies a need for self-starters who can navigate ambiguity. For an operations intern, this translates to an ability to manage tasks independently, identify potential roadblocks, and seek solutions proactively, rather than waiting for explicit instructions. The preference for Google Suite suggests a need for data organization and presentation skills.

📊 Process & Systems Portfolio Requirements

Portfolio Essentials:

• Process Documentation: Examples demonstrating the ability to document workflows, such as a process for organizing and tracking materials or a template for market research reports.

• Analytical Work: Samples of market analysis or consumer insight reports, even if academic in nature, showcasing data interpretation and presentation.

• Project Coordination Examples: Any evidence of managing multiple tasks, coordinating event logistics, or contributing to project timelines.

• System Improvement Ideas: While not explicitly required, demonstrating an understanding of how systems can be improved for efficiency or accuracy would be highly beneficial.

Process Documentation:

• Workflow Design: Ability to outline steps involved in a particular task or process, identifying key stages and dependencies.

• Data Tracking: Examples of how data has been tracked or managed to ensure accuracy and provide useful insights.

• Communication Protocols: Demonstrations of how clear communication was maintained with stakeholders regarding task status, material availability, or project updates.

📝 Enhancement Note: As an intern role, a formal "portfolio" might not be strictly required, but candidates are strongly encouraged to prepare examples of their work that showcase the skills listed in the responsibilities and qualifications. This could include academic projects, volunteer work, or previous part-time job experiences that highlight organizational skills, analytical thinking, and collaboration.

💵 Compensation & Benefits

Salary Range: As this is an internship position in Zurich, Switzerland, a competitive hourly wage or stipend is expected. Based on industry benchmarks for internships in major Swiss cities and the scope of responsibilities, a range of CHF 20-30 per hour is a reasonable estimate. This would equate to approximately CHF 3,200 - 4,800 per month for a standard 40-hour work week.

Benefits:

• Personal Self-care For Physical And Mental Well-being: Access to resources or programs supporting employee health and wellness.

• Supportive Team-oriented Atmosphere: A collaborative and encouraging work environment designed to foster growth and positive team dynamics.

• Professional Development Tools: Opportunities and resources for learning and skill enhancement tailored to career growth within the company.

• Exposure to Product Strategy: Invaluable hands-on experience and learning opportunities within a dynamic product strategy team.

• Networking Opportunities: Chance to build connections within the outdoor industry and with a globally recognized brand.

Working Hours: This role is expected to be a full-time internship, likely around 40 hours per week, with standard business hours in Zurich (e.g., Monday to Friday, 8:00 AM - 5:00 PM CET, with potential flexibility).

📝 Enhancement Note: Salary estimation is based on general internship compensation data for Switzerland and the cost of living in Zurich. Benefits are extrapolated from the provided "ai_benefits" and general internship offerings. The working hours are inferred from the standard full-time intern expectation.

🎯 Team & Company Context

🏢 Company Culture

Industry: Athletic Apparel & Footwear, with a strong focus on innovation and premium performance products, particularly in running and outdoor sports. On is known for its disruptive technology and direct-to-consumer approach.

Company Size: On is a rapidly growing global company, likely falling into the mid-to-large enterprise category (500-5000 employees), indicating a structured yet dynamic operational environment.

Founded: Founded in 2010, On is a relatively young company that has achieved significant global presence and brand recognition, suggesting a culture of rapid growth, innovation, and agility.

Team Structure:

• Operations Focus: The "Product Outdoor team" implies a specialized unit within the broader product development and strategy functions, likely comprising members with expertise in design, engineering, materials, testing, and strategy.

• Reporting: The intern will report to a manager or lead within the Product Outdoor team, who will oversee daily tasks and provide mentorship.

• Collaboration: A strong emphasis is placed on cross-functional collaboration, meaning the intern will interact with individuals from various departments, requiring excellent communication and interpersonal skills.

Methodology:

• Data-Driven Insights: The role's emphasis on market research and consumer analysis suggests a data-driven approach to product strategy and development.

• Agile Development: Given On's rapid growth and innovative nature, it's likely that agile methodologies are employed in product development and operational processes.

• Consumer-Centricity: The focus on understanding consumer opportunities highlights a commitment to developing products that meet market needs and desires.

Company Website: https://www.on.com/

📝 Enhancement Note: Company context is derived from the brand's public profile and the provided job description. The operations implications are inferred from the company's industry position and growth trajectory, suggesting a need for efficient, scalable processes and a proactive operational mindset even at the intern level.

📈 Career & Growth Analysis

Operations Career Level: This is an entry-level internship position, designed to provide foundational experience in product strategy support and operational tasks within the outdoor performance industry. It's an excellent stepping stone for individuals interested in product management, operations, marketing, or strategy roles within the sports and apparel sector.

Reporting Structure: The intern will report to a direct manager or team lead within the Product Outdoor team. This manager will provide guidance, feedback, and oversight, ensuring the intern gains relevant experience and contributes effectively to team goals.

Operations Impact: While an intern's direct impact is often developmental, this role contributes by ensuring critical operational tasks (sample management, data accuracy) are handled efficiently, freeing up senior team members for more strategic work. The market research component can directly influence future product decisions and strategy.

Growth Opportunities:

• Skill Development: Gain practical experience in market analysis, project coordination, sample management, and cross-functional collaboration.

• Industry Exposure: Deepen understanding of the outdoor performance product lifecycle, from strategy to consumer insights and product development.

• Networking: Build professional relationships with experienced individuals in the sports and apparel industry.

• Potential for Future Roles: Successful interns may be considered for future opportunities within On, depending on performance and business needs.

📝 Enhancement Note: The growth analysis is tailored for an intern position, focusing on learning and foundational skill acquisition. The "operations impact" is framed in terms of supporting senior team members and contributing to data gathering that informs strategy, typical for entry-level roles.

🌐 Work Environment

Office Type: The role is based on-site in Zurich, Switzerland, implying a professional office environment typical of a global sportswear company. This setting likely facilitates direct collaboration with team members and access to company resources.

Office Location(s): Zurich, Switzerland. This is a major European hub, offering a vibrant urban environment and excellent connectivity.

Workspace Context:

• Collaborative Spaces: Expect a modern office designed to encourage interaction, potentially with open-plan areas, meeting rooms, and dedicated project spaces.

• Tools & Technology: Access to standard office technology, including computers, relevant software (likely Google Suite), and potentially specialized product development tools.

• Team Interaction: Opportunities for regular face-to-face interaction with the Product Outdoor team, fostering a sense of camaraderie and facilitating real-time problem-solving.

Work Schedule: The work schedule is expected to be aligned with standard business hours in Zurich, typically Monday through Friday, around 40 hours per week. While specific flexibility isn't detailed, a professional office environment generally allows for some degree of schedule management with manager approval, especially for interns.

📝 Enhancement Note: The description of the work environment is generalized based on the location (Zurich) and the nature of a professional office for a global brand like On. The emphasis is on the collaborative and resource-rich setting conducive to learning and operational support.

📄 Application & Portfolio Review Process

Interview Process:

• Initial Screening: A review of your application and resume to assess alignment with basic qualifications and required skills.

• First Interview: Likely a behavioral and situational interview with a hiring manager or HR representative to discuss your background, motivation, and fit for the role and company culture. Expect questions about your passion for outdoor performance.

• Case Study/Task: You may be asked to complete a small task or case study related to market research, data analysis, or a presentation, potentially submitted beforehand or discussed during a subsequent interview. This will assess your analytical and presentation skills.

• Team Interview: An opportunity to meet potential team members and discuss your collaboration style and how you would fit into the Product Outdoor team.

• Final Interview: Potentially with a senior leader for final approval.

Portfolio Review Tips:

• Highlight Relevant Projects: Even if academic, showcase projects where you conducted research, analyzed data, managed tasks, or presented findings.

• Demonstrate Organization: For sample management and coordination tasks, explain your organizational methods and how you ensure accuracy.

• Showcase Analytical Skills: Present any market research or consumer analysis you've done, focusing on your methodology and insights.

• Quantify Achievements: Where possible, use numbers to describe the scope or impact of your work (e.g., "analyzed data from 50 consumer surveys," "coordinated logistics for a team of 10").

• Tailor to Operations: Frame your experiences to emphasize operational efficiency, problem-solving, and collaboration.

Challenge Preparation:

• Market Research Simulation: Be prepared to discuss how you would approach researching a specific outdoor market (e.g., hiking in the Alps) or analyzing consumer preferences.

• Presentation Practice: Rehearse presenting your findings or ideas concisely and clearly, as if to a team of product experts.

• Problem-Solving Scenarios: Think about how you would handle a situation where sample tracking data is inconsistent or an event needs last-minute changes.

📝 Enhancement Note: The interview and portfolio guidance are tailored for an intern position in a product strategy/operations support role. The focus is on demonstrating foundational skills, enthusiasm, and a willingness to learn, alongside any practical experience candidates can draw upon.

🛠 Tools & Technology Stack

Primary Tools:

• Google Suite: Essential for documentation, spreadsheets, presentations, and collaboration. Proficiency in Google Docs, Sheets, and Slides is expected.

• Product Management Software (Potential): While not explicitly stated, the company might use specific product lifecycle management (PLM) or product information management (PIM) systems. Familiarity with general principles of such systems would be beneficial.

• Project Management Tools (Potential): Tools like Asana, Trello, or Jira might be used for task tracking and workflow management.

Analytics & Reporting:

• Spreadsheet Software: Advanced use of Google Sheets (or Excel) for data analysis, organization, and basic reporting.

• Presentation Software: Google Slides (or equivalent) for creating compelling visual reports and presentations of research findings.

CRM & Automation:

• Not Directly Applicable: While CRM and automation are core to sales/revenue operations, this role is more focused on product strategy support and administrative operations. Direct experience with CRM or marketing automation tools is unlikely to be a primary requirement.

📝 Enhancement Note: The tools listed are based on the explicit mention of Google Suite and the inferred needs of a product strategy support role that involves data analysis and coordination. The emphasis is on general office productivity and analytical tools rather than specialized operations software.

👥 Team Culture & Values

Operations Values:

• Passion for Movement: A core value at On, this translates to a deep understanding and appreciation for the outdoor activities the products support, fostering authenticity and product knowledge.

• Innovation & Agility: The company's rapid growth and market disruption suggest a culture that values new ideas, quick adaptation, and a willingness to challenge the status quo in product development and operations.

• Sustainability & Responsibility: As a modern outdoor brand, there's likely an underlying commitment to environmental responsibility and ethical practices, which may influence product sourcing and operational decisions.

• Collaboration & Teamwork: The emphasis on cross-functional work highlights a belief in collective effort and shared success. Operations professionals are expected to be team players who can bridge departmental gaps.

• Data-Driven Decision Making: The role's focus on market research and analysis underscores the importance of using data to inform strategy and operational improvements.

Collaboration Style:

• Cross-Functional Integration: Expect a dynamic where team members from different disciplines (design, engineering, marketing, operations) work together closely, sharing insights and feedback regularly.

• Open Communication: A culture that encourages open dialogue, constructive feedback, and sharing of ideas to drive product innovation and operational efficiency.

• Proactive Problem Solving: Team members are likely encouraged to identify potential issues and propose solutions collaboratively, rather than waiting for direction.

📝 Enhancement Note: Team culture and values are inferred from On's brand identity as an innovative outdoor performance company and the job description's emphasis on collaboration and passion. These values shape how operations tasks are approached and how team members interact.

⚡ Challenges & Growth Opportunities

Challenges:

• Navigating Ambiguity: As an intern, you may encounter tasks or projects with unclear objectives. Developing the ability to seek clarification and define scope will be crucial.

• Balancing Multiple Tasks: Juggling sample management, event coordination, and research requires strong organizational skills and effective time management.

• Cross-Functional Communication: Effectively communicating with diverse teams, each with their own priorities and jargon, can be challenging but rewarding.

• Understanding Product Strategy Nuances: Grasping the strategic thinking behind product decisions and translating market insights into actionable recommendations.

Learning & Development Opportunities:

• Operational Workflow Mastery: Gain hands-on experience in essential operations tasks like sample management and data upkeep.

• Market Analysis Skills: Develop a deeper understanding of market research methodologies and consumer behavior analysis within a specific industry.

• Industry Immersion: Learn about the product development lifecycle in the high-performance outdoor apparel and footwear sector.

• Professional Communication: Enhance presentation and interpersonal skills through daily interactions and project work.

• Mentorship: Benefit from guidance and insights from experienced professionals in product strategy and operations.

📝 Enhancement Note: Challenges and growth opportunities are framed from the perspective of an intern. They highlight areas where the candidate will be stretched and learn, directly relating to the responsibilities and the nature of an internship in a fast-paced company.

💡 Interview Preparation

Strategy Questions:

• Market Research Approach: "If you were tasked with understanding the emerging trends in sustainable hiking gear, how would you begin your research?" (Prepare to outline your methodology, data sources, and analysis steps.)

• Collaboration Scenario: "Describe a time you had to work with a diverse group of people to achieve a common goal. What was your role, and how did you ensure effective communication?" (Focus on your contribution to team success and overcoming communication barriers.)

• Problem-Solving Example: "Tell us about a time you encountered an ambiguous problem or task. How did you approach it, and what was the outcome?" (Highlight your initiative, problem-solving process, and ability to drive work forward.)

Company & Culture Questions:

• Passion for Outdoors: "What is your favorite outdoor activity, and why are you passionate about products in this space?" (Be genuine and connect your passion to On's brand and mission.)

• Team Fit: "How do you approach working in a team environment, and what makes a team successful in your opinion?" (Emphasize collaboration, communication, and a positive attitude.)

• Company Interest: "What do you know about On, and why are you interested in this specific internship?" (Show you've done your research on the brand, its products, and its values.)

Portfolio Presentation Strategy:

• Structure Your Examples: For each piece of work you present, clearly state the objective, your role, the process you followed, the outcome, and the key skills demonstrated.

• Quantify Your Impact: Use numbers and data whenever possible to illustrate the scale or success of your contributions.

• Focus on Process: Explain how you achieved results, not just what you achieved. This is crucial for operations-focused roles.

• Keep it Concise: Be prepared to walk through your portfolio efficiently, highlighting the most relevant examples for this specific role.

📝 Enhancement Note: Interview preparation advice is designed to help an intern candidate demonstrate their readiness for operational support and strategic thinking, emphasizing a proactive, analytical, and collaborative mindset.

📌 Application Steps

To apply for this operations position:

• Submit your application through the provided Greenhouse link, ensuring all fields are completed accurately.

• Tailor Your Resume: Highlight any experience related to organization, project coordination, data analysis, research, or collaboration. Use keywords from the job description.

• Prepare Your Portfolio: Gather examples of academic projects, volunteer work, or previous job experiences that showcase your organizational skills, analytical abilities, and presentation capabilities. Focus on demonstrating your process and problem-solving approach.

• Research On: Familiarize yourself with On's products, brand story, mission, and recent news. Understand their position in the market and their commitment to performance and innovation.

• Practice Interview Responses: Prepare to discuss your passion for outdoor activities, your problem-solving approach, and your understanding of collaboration, using the STAR method (Situation, Task, Action, Result) for behavioral questions.

⚠️ Important Notice: This enhanced job description includes AI-generated insights and operations industry-standard assumptions. All details should be verified directly with the hiring organization before making application decisions.

---