About R.A.D®:
R.A.D® is a performance footwear company using innovation and creativity to unlock the euphoria of sport. Inspired by skateboarding and surfing, we blend cutting-edge performance design with a distinctive aesthetic rooted in lifestyle subcultures. Our footwear is designed for athletes who move with purpose—and as we expand globally, we’re growing with intention: more competition, more training, more community, more impact. As an underdog in a field dominated by giants, we focus on authentic, credible brand-building that challenges the status quo; step-by-step crafting a legacy. Tuned For The Future.
The Role:
As Commercial Director, you will define and lead the commercial strategy and execution that powers R.A.D®’s growth across retail, wholesale, vendor partnerships, merchandising, buying, and legal compliance. This is a pivotal, brand-defining role - one that blends strategic thinking, operational execution, and authentic brand stewardship.
You’ll work cross-functionally with product, operations, and marketing to ensure that every commercial decision fuels R.A.D®’s performance and purpose. You’ll help us build a commercial engine from the ground up that is as innovative and community-driven as the brand itself.
Key Responsibilities:
Sales & Channel Management:
• Oversee all retail and wholesale partnerships, focusing on specialty and performance-driven retailers.
• Build and manage a sales team with clear goals and strategic direction.
• Negotiate and manage commercial contracts with global retail partners and distributors
Vendor & Contract Management:
• Own key vendor relationships across manufacturing, distribution, and third-party services
• Negotiate and manage terms, contracts, and SLAs to ensure performance, efficiency, and alignment with brand values
Merchandising & Buying:
• Collaborate with the marketing and product teams to develop seasonal line plans that align with commercial and creative goals.
• Direct the assortment strategy, demand forecasting, and purchasing for DTC and wholesale.
• Ensure that inventory decisions enhance performance while safeguarding R.A.D®’s premium status positioning
Legal, Compliance & Risk:
• Oversee all legal matters related to commercial operations, including intellectual property, trademarks, and brand protection.
• Ensure global compliance with digital standards, product safety, and international regulations, including but not limited to CPSI, GPSR, GPSD, Prop 65 and REACH.
• Collaborate with legal counsel to ensure that contracts and partnerships are sound and scalable.
Qualifications & Experience:
• Over 8 years of experience in a senior commercial role within the footwear, apparel, or consumer goods sectors
* Experience in an early stage start up or scale up
• Skilled at balancing brand development with strong commercial outcomes
• Proficient in vendor management, contract negotiation, and international operations
• Solid understanding of IP protection, compliance frameworks, and legal risk on a global scale
• Strategic thinker who excels at hands-on execution; you think big but are not afraid to roll up your sleeves and get your hands dirty. Whatever it takes to drive growth.
• Natural collaborator who infuses energy, accountability, and purpose into every partnership
• Passionate about performance footwear, innovative commerce, and creating meaningful experiences