Purpose
Ensure the availability of materials, which support the strategic marketing & design direction to enable commercial success.
Finds or develops the right materials according to calendar timelines, target prices, sourcing policy, and quality standards.
Key Responsibilities
Be the key contact and consultant for all material related questions for all internal interfaces
Lead all cross-functional discussions related to materials topics, steer the material selection process and drive material consolidation to improve material efficiency
Build and maintain a close relationship with interfaces such as Design, Creation Center Product Development, Material Sourcing, Quality and Suppliers
Ensure availability of correct materials data in PDM (technical data, cost, toolbox, lifecycle)
Identify suitable sources for new material developments (aligned with material sourcing strategy) and guide suppliers to translate the design vision into new, innovative material which meet commercial needs of the brand
Initiate and monitor all material developments (work together with suppliers, Sourcing, Quality and MDI innovation Managers)
Ensure that all selected materials are being tested and approved by Footwear Quality in accordance with applicable calendar timelines
Cooperate with cross-functional team to create a focused material toolbox and coach the cross-functional team on how to improve material efficiencies
Set up and maintain the materials library and work on continuously improving the setup and tools for the product creation teams
Provide latest information on material trends to the respective Business Units/ categories also by gathering innovative input from relevant fairs, supplier meetings, apparel material show etc
Support Innovation projects and ensure their successful technical implementation and documentation in alignment with the MDI innovation Managers
Act as a gate keeper for a selected Material Types to ensure alignment and avoid duplications of materials
Key Relationships
Marketing
Design
Sourcing
POPS
MDI internal contacts
Suppliers T2
Knowledge, Skills and Abilities
Advanced communication skills, especially when interacting with different levels of business
Ability to create, plan and effectively deliver presentations in formal and informal settings
Ability to anticipate problems, offers solutions, and address issues with materials in order to meet the Design teams aesthetic goals and financial targets
Ability to cope with change
Ability to work independently or with limited guidance
Ability to accept and meet critical deadlines with good planning and organization skills
Fluent English (verbal and written)
Strong IT skills (e-mail, MS office)
Qualifications
Four year college or university degree in textile engineering or comparable degree/education
Minimum of 2-3 years work experience in the fabric production industry (knowledge of manufacturing process, fabrics, mechanical and chemical treatments)