About the Program
Through the Sourcing Associate Program, adidas offers a unique platform to start your career, coached by experienced mentors and managers. Over 24 months, participants rotate through different teams and receive training and on-the-job learning from internal experts. A senior-level mentor provides feedback throughout the program and helps define long-term career paths. Upon graduation, participants are expected to move into a managerial role.
Key Responsibilities
- Learn and participate in Sourcing Operations and Functions, including Product Creation, Costing, Materials, Product Testing, Tactical and Production Planning, Manufacturing, Quality, and Manufacturing Excellence.
- Intern successfully in these roles and contribute actively to team success.
- Shadow senior sourcing leaders in interactions with customers, suppliers, third parties, headquarters teams, and assigned departments.
- Understand functions and responsibilities, provide support to assigned departments, report regularly to the mentor, and receive coaching.
- Take functional and project leadership under guidance and serve as a role model for higher roles.
- Bring new ideas and support change within the teams.
- Ensure sourcing operations comply with adidas’ Responsible Sourcing & Purchasing Policy, adidas standards, and legal requirements.
Knowledge, Skills and Abilities
- Technical skills in manufacturing, planning, project management, industrial engineering, materials engineering, biomechanics, or sport science preferred.
- Communication, presentation, note-taking, computer literacy, analytical, reporting, and data-collection skills.
- An open mind and passion for sports.
Education and Experience
No previous work experience is required, although it is preferred. Vocational training, preferably in a multinational organization, an MA in Mechanical, Chemical, or Industrial Engineering, or an MBA is preferred. Fluent written and spoken English is required; German, Mandarin Chinese, Vietnamese, and Bahasa Indonesia are advantageous. Flexibility and willingness to relocate at the company’s request are required.
Company Culture
adidas promotes an athlete mindset through courage, ownership, innovation, teamplay, integrity, and respect, with a strong focus on diversity, equity, and inclusion.