The Fabric/Trim Development Associate will work closely with Fabric, Design, and Sourcing to research, develop, and approve new materials against seasonal timelines for cross-functional needs and deliverables.
Key Accountabilities:
- Ensure seasonal fabric books are complete and accurately detailed
- Utilize fabric, trim and wash standard charts to lead weekly internal development meeting for status updates, troubleshooting, and cost engineering. Provide recommendations to resolve challenges as needed
- Oversee creation and accuracy of sample yardage request charts to be shared overseas
- Communicate design comments and revisions on submits to overseas offices, mills, and suppliers
- Lead the development of all fabrics and trims specific to assigned brands and/or categories
- Monitor and track production and costing of suppliers for all development inclusive of trims/hangtags
- Communicate regularly with overseas offices to update and share information on fabric standards for production
- Partner to review fabric and wash submits with the Product Approval team
- Attend fabric fairs and conduct online research and identify current and emerging trends in materials and washes
- Collaboratively work on seasonal materials boards showcasing new trends and innovation to Design and Sourcing
- Support PLM updates and data implementation as needed
- Partner with sourcing to hand off seasonal standards
- Attend mill and supplier meetings in the NY Office
- Special projects as assigned
Required Skills/Abilities/Education:
- Bachelor’s Degree in Textile/Product Development or related field
- 2+ years of experience in Material Development
- Excellent organizational and communication skills with attention to detail
- Deadline driven with a sense of urgency and accuracy
- Ability to multi-task and prioritize in a fast-paced environment
- Strong general computer and Excel skills