Descrizione dell'offerta
Position Overview
Lead fabric research and development across wovens, knits, and leather for Women’s Collection, driving innovation from concept through to bulk production. Serve as a key partner across all stages of fabric management, providing deep expertise, market insight, and strong vendor engagement to ensure best‑in‑class quality, on‑time delivery, and cost discipline. Leverage strategic sourcing and negotiation to elevate fabric selection while consistently upholding and enhancing the Ralph Lauren aesthetic.
Essential Duties & Responsibilities
- Evaluate design‑led fabric proposals; introduce innovative and commercially viable alternatives.
- Partner with Design and Merchandising to finalize fabric selection and color direction at NY headquarters.
- Develop new fabric qualities directly with mills, balancing quality, cost, performance, and scalability.
- Manage sample yardage orders aligned to development launches, garment quantities, and timelines.
- Review and approve all sample materials for hand feel, quality, and color accuracy.
- Identify fabric risks during sampling; propose and implement alternative solutions for production.
- Negotiate fabric pricing and maintain strong supplier partnerships.
- Drive supplier follow‑ups to ensure adherence to development and production timelines.
- Support vendors in resolving fabrication‑related issues during production.
- Participate in fittings and vendor/showroom handoffs to ensure fabric integrity in final garments.
- Lead targeted fabric research and development for VIC/VIP projects, including sourcing or creating exclusive materials aligned with brand standards and client needs.
Experience, Skills & Knowledge
10 years of experience in a similar role in a luxury brand. Excellent knowledge of fabrics. Very good communication skills. Fluent in English and Italian, both spoken and written. Good knowledge of Windows applications. Precise, organized, proactive, and a team player.
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