Material Research & Development Manager

About the role

The Material Research & Development Manager serves as a strategic and technical leader responsible for driving material innovation, sourcing strategy, and commercialization across fabrics and trims from concept through production. This role partners closely with Design, Product Development, and Production to ensure materials support brand vision, performance requirements, cost targets, and seasonal calendars. The individual will act as the primary owner of material strategy, supplier relationships, and development execution, enabling scalable, high-quality, and commercially viable product outcomes.

Responsibilities

• Lead the development and execution of seasonal and long-term material strategies aligned to brand direction, product needs, and margin targets
• Identify, evaluate, and introduce innovative fabrics, yarns, finishes, and trims that elevate product and differentiate the brand
• Own material commercialization from concept through production, ensuring readiness against key milestones and deadlines
• Partner with Design and Product Development at the outset of each season to guide material direction and feasibility
• Build, manage, and optimize a global supplier network, strengthening existing relationships while onboarding new partners as needed
• Drive continuous improvement in material quality, performance, cost, and lead-time efficiency
• Oversee material libraries and approved material platforms to ensure accuracy, accessibility, and consistency across teams
• Lead material development testing, ensuring compliance with performance standards, quality requirements, and regulatory guidelines
• Review lab dips, strike-offs, knit downs, bulk approvals, and prototypes to ensure alignment with design intent and technical standards
• Negotiate pricing, MOQs, lead times, and development capabilities with suppliers to balance innovation and commercial viability
• Analyze material data, reporting, and testing outcomes to identify risks, opportunities, and process improvements
• Collaborate cross-functionally to resolve material issues and ensure seamless integration into product development timelines
• Attend fabric shows, trade events, and mill visits to stay ahead of trends and strengthen supplier partnerships

Qualifications

• 5–7 years of experience in apparel material R&D, textile engineering, or related field
• Experience with performance, outdoor, or premium lifestyle brands strongly preferred
• Strong understanding of product development calendars and seasonal workflows
• Proficiency in Adobe Illustrator and Photoshop preferred
• Experience with PLM or similar systems preferred
• Bachelor’s degree in Textile Design, Engineering, Fashion, or related field (or equivalent experience)

Skills

• Strong analytical and critical thinking skills with a data-driven mindset
• Exceptional attention to detail and commitment to quality
• Ability to influence and collaborate across Design, Product Development, and Production
• Self-directed leader who takes ownership, drives decisions, and improves processes
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills
• Strong negotiation and relationship management skills

Technical Knowledge

• Knit and woven constructions
• Fibers, yarns, and material structures
• Dyeing, finishing, and treatment processes
• Performance testing and quality standards
• Print and color development

Intangibles

• A clear, forward-looking material strategy that drives innovation and supports business objectives
• Consistent delivery of high-quality, commercially viable materials on time and within cost parameters
• Strong, trusted supplier partnerships that enable speed, transparency, and innovation
• Material readiness integrated into the seasonal calendar with minimal disruption to development
• Continuous improvement in material sourcing processes, systems, and outcomes