ASSOCIATE MATERIALS MANAGER - R&D Wovens

Utilizes trade shows, trend and color services, and engages in market research of aspirational brands, and competitor market intelligence as needed to identify and publish seasonal materials newness, trend and innovation Collaborates with the brand design teams to execute R&D will strategic mills at direction of seasonal design intent briefs Creates and maintains newness, trend, and innovation boards for strategic milestone meetings with cross functional stakeholders against seasonal timelines Seeks newness, trend market intelligence from cutting edge market leader external partners ie fashion media, influencers, publications Works aligned with seasonal calendar and milestone meetings Develops sustainability alternatives in seasonal newness, trend and innovation Works closely with design to deliver newness, trend as appropriate by age and gender Partners closely with the Materials Sourcing team to align early development requests, as appropriate, with strategic mill matrix and seasonal sourcing strategy Shares information from cutting edge fabric suppliers to deliver sustainably sourced materials and functional performance finishes to design intent and aesthetic at target price points Executes PLM functions related to new development and commercialization of seasonal materials including fabric palettes by brand Works directly with mills for developing materials within cost range for required IMU while maintaining aesthetic, quality and performance features to design intent Drives materials testing standards and test methods with pass ratings for final approval Updates status of research & development tools as per seasonal design briefs to updates design teams Initiates and course corrects trend development in response to market fashion Manages a physical library and offers options in existing qualities as appropriate while meeting design intent Drives sustainability in trend, newness development 4+ years of experience creative development experience related to textiles Established research and development experience Technically proficient in textile construction with a global perspective Strong organizational and change management skills Strong presenting and influencing skill set Bachelor’s Degree ideally in Design or Textiles, Business or closely related fields will be considered Experience traveling and working directly with the Apparel & Textile Global Supply Chain Ability to travel domestically and internationally