Raw Material Manager

Position Overview:
The Raw Materials Manager is responsible for leading the research, development, sourcing, and procurement of fabrics and materials to meet the company’s design, quality, sustainability, and cost objectives. This role collaborates closely with design, product development, and production teams to ensure fabric choices align with the brand’s creative vision and commercial goals. The Manager also maintains supplier relationships, negotiates contracts, and ensures all materials comply with required standards and regulations.

Key Responsibilities:

1. Fabric Research and Development

• Lead research and development of new fabrics and materials, including sustainable and innovative textiles, to support the company’s product lines.
• Stay updated on industry trends, technological advancements, and emerging materials to integrate cutting-edge fabrics into the product range.
• Collaborate with design teams to identify and develop fabrics that align with the brand’s aesthetic and functional requirements.
• Oversee fabric testing and analysis to ensure compliance with quality, durability, performance, and safety standards.
• Manage prototyping and sampling processes to evaluate new materials and provide feedback for improvement.

2. Sourcing and Supplier Management

• Identify, select, and onboard fabric suppliers, mills, and manufacturers that meet the company’s quality, ethical, and sustainability standards.
• Establish and maintain strong relationships with domestic and international suppliers, negotiating favourable terms and pricing.
• Assess supplier capabilities and capacities, ensuring alignment with production schedules and volume requirements.
• Monitor and evaluate supplier performance regularly, ensuring adherence to quality standards and delivery timelines.

3. Buying and Procurement

• Manage the procurement process, including issuing purchase orders, tracking shipments, and ensuring timely delivery of materials.
• Optimise inventory levels by forecasting demand, monitoring stock levels, and minimising waste.
• Collaborate with logistics and supply chain teams to streamline fabric sourcing and delivery processes.

4. Cross-Functional Collaboration

• Work closely with design, product development, and production teams to ensure fabric choices support design intent and manufacturing feasibility.
• Provide technical expertise to the design team on fabric selection, capabilities, and limitations.
• Liaise with the quality assurance team to address fabric-related issues during production, ensuring quality standards are upheld.
• Support marketing and sales teams with fabric knowledge and insights for product presentations and consumer education.

5. Sustainability and Compliance

• Drive sustainability initiatives by sourcing eco-friendly materials and ensuring all fabrics meet environmental and social compliance standards.
• Promote sustainable practices within sourcing and buying processes, including waste reduction and carbon footprint minimisation.

6. Reporting and Analysis

• Prepare regular reports and presentations on fabric research, development progress, sourcing activities, procurement outcomes, and value engineering efforts.
• Analyse fabric costs, supplier performance, and market trends to inform strategic decision-making.
• Provide insights and recommendations to senior management on fabric-related opportunities and challenges.

Qualifications:

• Advanced diploma or BTech in Clothing & Textile Technology, Textile Science, Fashion Design, Quality, or related field (Master’s degree preferred).
• 5–8 years of experience in fabric research, development, sourcing, buying, and value engineering within the fashion or textile industry.
• In-depth knowledge of textile manufacturing processes, fabric properties, and industry standards.
• Strong negotiation, supplier management, and relationship-building skills.
• Excellent project management and organisational abilities, with the capacity to handle multiple projects simultaneously.
• Proficiency in fabric testing methodologies, quality assurance processes, and compliance requirements.
• Familiarity with sustainable textile practices and certifications (e.g., GOTS, OEKO-TEX).
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills with the ability to make data-driven decisions.
• Excellent communication skills and ability to work effectively in a cross-functional team environment.
• Willingness to travel domestically and internationally for supplier visits and trade shows

Key Competencies:

• Innovation: Ability to drive and embrace new ideas, technologies, and materials in fabric development.
• Sustainability Mindset: Passionate about integrating sustainable practices into fabric sourcing and development.
• Attention to Detail: Strong focus on accuracy and quality in fabric selection and procurement.
• Leadership: Capable of leading cross-functional teams and mentoring junior staff.
• Negotiation: Skilled in negotiating contracts and securing favourable terms with suppliers.