Material Developer, Apparel

Key Responsibilities

• Material Development & Commercialization

Develop seasonal fabric materials from concept to commercialization, ensuring materials meet product performance, quality, cost, and timeline requirements. Work closely with Design, Product Development, and suppliers to deliver commercially viable material solutions.

• Supplier Development & Technical Support

Build strong partnerships with suppliers to improve material quality, technical capability, development efficiency, and innovation. Support supplier evaluation and benchmarking through technical assessment, performance analysis, and continuous improvement initiatives.

• Process Improvement & Data Analysis

Support continuous improvement of the material development process by analyzing development KPIs, supplier performance, and material data. Identify opportunities to improve development efficiency, standardize workflows, and enhance decision-making through data-driven insights.

Essential Duties

• Develop seasonal fabric materials from concept through commercialization.

• Collaborate with Design, Product Development, Quality and suppliers throughout the material development process.

• Provide technical recommendations on fiber selection, yarn construction, fabric structure, dyeing, finishing, coatings, lamination, and manufacturing processes.

• Evaluate material performance, lab test results, and commercialization risks to ensure materials meet product requirements.

• Support supplier benchmarking and performance evaluation based on quality, innovation, technical capability, delivery, capacity, sustainability, and commercial competitiveness.

• Analyze development KPIs, supplier performance, and seasonal material data to identify trends and opportunities for process improvement.

• Maintain accurate material information, cost data, and development status in PLM and related systems.

• Monitor seasonal raw material and fabric market trends to support material selection and cost management.

• Work proactively with suppliers and cross-functional teams to resolve development issues and ensure on-time schedule.

• Support the development and implementation of standardized processes, tools, and best practices to improve overall team efficiency.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Textile Engineering, Textile Science, Material Science, Apparel Engineering, or a related discipline.

• At least 8 years of experience in textile or apparel material development, with strong expertise in fabric development.

• Solid knowledge of textile materials, including fibers, yarns, woven and knit constructions, dyeing, finishing, coatings, lamination, and textile manufacturing processes.

• Good understanding of textile testing methods and the ability to interpret laboratory results for product development.

• Strong analytical skills with the ability to organize, interpret, and utilize development and supplier data to support decision-making.

• Proficiency in Microsoft Excel, Powerpoint and other data analysis tools.

• Strong communication and collaboration skills with the ability to work effectively across cross-functional teams and suppliers.

• Self-motivated, detail-oriented, and capable of managing multiple development projects in a fast-paced environment.

• Good command of written and spoken English.

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience in performance sportswear or outdoor apparel.

• Experience working with global suppliers and cross-regional development teams.

• Familiarity with sustainability standards and material compliance requirements.