Manager, Fabric R&D

About Us LOFT creates modern, feminine, versatile clothing for women with one common style goal: to look and feel confident wherever the day takes them. We empower women to find their authentic self-expression because feeling like yourself is always in style. Here at LOFT, we're busy styling the careers and supporting the lives of everyday optimists just like you. Express your authentic self and experience endless inspiration, all while enjoying the opportunities and benefits that help you get the most from your career, life, and wardrobe. About The Role This position is primarily responsible for driving the research, gathering, and development of fabric and/or trim for their product category. Partners with cross-functional teams and external vendor/mill partners in the development of high-quality, brand-right fabrics. Collaborates with cross functional teams in establishing, refining, and implementing Fabric R&D processes into the broader design and development process, both internally and externally. The impact you can have Work with Director, Fabric R&D on researching, developing, and sourcing fabrics that are trend, customer and brand right, while maintaining pricing structureEnsure fabric development is brand appropriate, trend right, and of elevated quality so as to elevate the aesthetic and inherent value of the product and the brandResearch and stay abreast of fabric and/or trim trends and technological developments as they relate to the clientDevelop and maintain a fabric sourcing libraryForge and maintain relationships with millsWork directly with design to gather and develop fabrics and drive fabric development T&AConsistently partner with design, merchandising, product development, production and vendors on fabric development related issues for immediate needs and future developmentDefine, drive and execute a seasonal fabric strategyMaintain, update, and analyze fabric projects ensuring fiscal and quality goalsMentor, coach and counsel direct reports on performance expectationsProvide a positive, challenging work environmentRecognize and reward talent and accomplishmentsInterface effectively with all levels throughout the organization You’ll bring to the role Bachelor’s Degree, or equivalent experience5-7 years in the textile industry, with expertise in fabric development both domestically and internationallyIn depth fabric knowledge and experience in relation to weaving, printing, dyeing, finishing, treatments and washing techniques as well as mill capabilitiesKnowledge and understanding of merchandising and product developmentStrong design aestheticAbility to drive processes with cross functional team membersAbility to communicate clearly, both written and verbalAbility to handle multiple tasks with shifting priorities Benefits You will be eligible to receive a merchandise discount at select KnitWell Group brands, subject to each brand’s discount policies.Support for your individual development plus opportunities for career mobility within our family of brands. A culture of giving back – local volunteer opportunities, annual donation and volunteer match to eligible nonprofit organizations, and philanthropic activities to support our communities. * Medical, dental, vision insurance & 401(K)* Employee Assistance Program (EAP)Time off – paid time off & holidays*The target salary range for this role is: $80,000 - $85,000*Hybrid: This position works in a hybrid model, with required days worked in the office location in as defined by business needs.Any job offer will consider factors such your qualifications, relevant experience, and skills. Eligibility of certain benefits and associate programs are subject to employment type and role. Location: Times Square Tower-ANN-New York, NY 10036 Position Type Regular/Full time Equal Employment Opportunity The Company is an equal opportunity employer and welcomes applications from diverse candidates. Hiring decisions are based upon a candidate's qualifications as they relate to the requirements of the position under consideration and are made without regard to sex (including pregnancy), race, color, national origin, religion, age, disability, genetic information, military status, sexual orientation, gender identity, or any other category protected by applicable law. The Company is committed to providing reasonable accommodations for job applicants with disabilities. If you require an accommodation to perform the essential duties of the position you are seeking or to participate in the application process, please contact myHRSupport@knitwellgroup.com. The Company will make reasonable accommodations for otherwise qualified applicants or employees, unless such accommodations would impose an undue hardship on the operations of the Company’s business. The Company will not revoke or alter a job offer based on an applicant’s request for reasonable accommodation.