Materials Development Lead (M/W)
On-site · Milan, Lombardy, Italy
Job Summary
Materials Development Lead drives material selection and development from concept through commercialization for fabrics and trims, collaborating with Design, Product Development, Merchandising, and Sourcing to deliver materials that meet performance, aesthetics, and cost targets. Lead the material innovation pipeline, review seasonal mill collections, and present material direction. Ensure materials align with end-use requirements, testing standards, and certifications; manage material data in PLM; coordinate material testing with QA; develop and maintain testing standards; identify and nurture strategic supplier partnerships, negotiate with suppliers, and support cost optimization. Lead cross-functional materials meetings, mitigate supply chain risks, and contribute to sustainable material initiatives. Fluent English required; Italian or French is a plus.
Required Qualifications
- Degree in Textile Engineering (or equivalent) with 5–8 years’ experience in fabric/material development within apparel, sportswear or outdoor industry
- Proven ability to develop fabrics and trims from concept through to commercialization
- Strong knowledge of fabric construction, performance, testing standards and end-use requirements
- Fluent in English; Italian or French is a plus
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