Fabric Development Manager - Apparel

About the role

We are hiring a Fabric Development Manager to lead the sourcing, development, and commercialization of fabrics, washes, trims, and raw materials across a portfolio of apparel collections, including children's apparel, private label, and licensed brands. This is a New York City based role that manages the full fabric development lifecycle from initial concept through bulk production handoff.

Responsibilities

• Lead fabric and raw material development from concept through bulk production, making sure materials meet design, quality, cost, and timing targets
• Source and develop seasonal fabrics, trims, washes, and other raw materials that align with design direction, sourcing capabilities, and financial goals
• Build and maintain relationships with domestic and international mills, suppliers, laundries, and factories
• Work closely with Design, Product Development, Technical Design, Production, Merchandising, and Sourcing to secure timely material approvals and keep execution on track
• Maintain the PLM material library, fabric archives, and wash standards to support accurate documentation and seasonal development
• Research textile trends and new materials or supplier opportunities
• Analyze fabric utilization across brands to improve costs, lead times, and overall efficiency

Required Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Fashion Merchandising, Textile Science, Product Development, Apparel Manufacturing, Business, International Trade, or a related field
• 5+ years of experience in Fabric Development, Raw Materials Development, or Sourcing within the apparel industry
• Strong knowledge of textile construction, including yarns, knitting, weaving, dyeing, printing, finishing, and garment wash development
• Solid understanding of apparel manufacturing and the product development lifecycle from concept through production handoff
• Experience sourcing fabrics, trims, and sample materials from domestic and international suppliers
• Experience working directly with overseas factories and international vendors
• Proficiency with PLM systems, Microsoft Excel, Outlook, and PowerPoint
• Strong written and verbal communication skills for collaborating across global teams

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience developing products for children's apparel, private label, or licensed brands
• Familiarity with sustainability initiatives, recycled materials, and responsible sourcing practices
• Strong relationship building skills across departments, vendors, and overseas offices
• Strong organizational and time management skills, with the ability to manage multiple priorities in a fast paced, multi channel environment

Pay

$80,000 to $100,000 per year, based on experience.

Schedule

This position works in the office four days per week, with the option to work from home on Fridays.

Benefits

• Medical, dental, and vision insurance
• 401(k) plan
• Paid time off
• Hybrid schedule, four days in office with remote Fridays