Manager Materials Development Apparel

• Serve as the primary contact and subject matter expert for all apparel material–related topics across internal teams
• Drive cross-functional material discussions, lead material selection, and promote material consolidation for efficiency
• Build and maintain strong relationships with Design, Product Development, Sourcing, Quality, and external suppliers
• Ensure accuracy and availability of material data in internal systems (technical specs, costing, lifecycle information)
• Identify and vet sources for new material developments aligned with sourcing strategy and product allocation needs
• Partner with Tier 2 suppliers to translate design direction into innovative, commercially viable materials
• Manage seasonal material development from kickoff to finalization, including initial price negotiations with suppliers
• Ensure all materials are tested and approved by Materials Quality teams according to timelines and standards
• Collaborate cross-functionally to build a focused material toolbox and optimize material efficiency across categories
• Maintain and continuously improve the materials library
• encourage shared usage across teams
• Research and share material trends, insights, and innovations through supplier meetings, trade fairs, and internal partners
• Work with innovation and sustainability teams to translate new concepts into actionable business plans

• Excellent communication, presentation, and influencing skills
• Solution-oriented mindset with the ability to identify material-related issues and propose alternatives
• Strong understanding of the apparel creation and material development processes
• Highly organized, with the ability to manage multiple projects and priorities
• Proficiency in English
• Strong IT skills (MS Office, internal databases)
• Willingness to travel as required
• Growth mindset and commitment to continuous learning
• Bachelor’s degree in Textile Engineering or a related field (or equivalent education/experience)
• Minimum 2 years of experience in material development or a similar discipline

experience with 3D creation tools is a plus