Job Summary:

In the realm of product creation and development, the Material Manager plays a pivotal role in the initial stages of bringing innovative products to market. This includes idea generation, materials sourcing, product testing, and commercialization. Our main goal is to get the best product at the best cost point and delivered on time. The ideal candidate will lead a dynamic team, possessing extensive experience and technical knowledge, complemented by a commercial mindset and excellent communication skills.

Responsibilities:

Material Strategy & Development

For Fabric

• Collaborate with cross functional teams on fabric development, support the commercialization with fully test validation.
• Understand fabric trends and technologies to enhance product offerings.

For Trim

• Lead end-to-end trim development, from concept to commercialization, ensuring alignment with design, performance, and sustainability standards.
• Research and identify emerging material trends and technologies to enhance product offerings.
• Drive innovation in sustainable materials to meet corporate ESG goals.

Sourcing & Supplier Management:

• Build and maintain strong relationships with suppliers, negotiate costs, MOQs and lead times while ensuring quality standards.
• Conduct supplier audits and risk assessments to ensure ethical and sustainable practices.

Cross-Functional Collaboration:

• Partner with Design and Product Development teams to translate creative concepts into feasible material solutions.
• Collaborate with Product Development team to translate material specifications into actual product
• Coordinate testing validation processes for materials, ensuring compliance with industry standards and product specifications.

Color Management:

• Oversee color management processes, including vendor requests, submission and approval.
• Ensure color meet quality standards and testing requirements
• Ensure timely procurement aligned with project timelines

Cost Management:

• Develop cost-saving initiatives without compromising quality or sustainability.
• Track material costs, lead times, and minimums to optimize margins.

Market and Trend Analysis:

• Monitor market trends, consumer preferences, and regional regulations to inform actionable strategies and product development plans.
• Stay informed about regional and global regulations and standards.

Requirements:

• Bachelor’s degree in Clothing & Textiles or a related field.
• Minimum 10 years in material development, particularly with international sports and lifestyle fashion brands, especially for China and Asia markets. At least 5 years of management experience.
• Proficient in MS Office, Adobe Illustrator, and relevant AA systems.
• Strong organizational and time management abilities.
• Excellent verbal, written, and visual communication skills.
• Analytical thinking and problem-solving capabilities.
• Excellent interpersonal skills.
• Fluency in English.
• Self-directed with the ability to prioritize individual workload while aligning with team goals.
• Willingness to travel globally as required.

Equal Opportunity Employer:

New Balance is committed to equality of opportunity for all current and prospective associates regardless of age, disability, race, religion or belief, gender, sexual orientation, pregnancy and maternity, marriage and civil partnership and gender reassignment. We are an equal opportunity employer and support a culture of diversity and inclusion.