Manager, Apparel Material & Trim Development, Local Creation GC

This role shapes the future of apparel materials by exploring trends, unlocking technologies, and turning insights into commercialised solutions aligned to sustainability and performance goals. The Materials Developer manager sits within the Great China Local Creation team and collaborates with Design, Product Management, Technical Development, Colour, Sourcing, and Manufacturing. The role manages material development including fabric and trims with assigned vendors, leads material sourcing strategy, vendor training and connection, and reports to the APP development Director.

• Drive material development from concept to commercialisation, partnering closely with vendors and manufacturing teams.
• Collaborate daily with Design, Product Management, Technical Development, Colorist, Sourcing, and Manufacturing to build elevated material palettes.
• Lead material testing, risk assessment, tracking, and validation to ensure product excellence.
• Mentor teammates and provide technical guidance across the materials function.
• Translate trends, athlete insights, and emerging technologies into actionable development strategies.
• Champion long-term material innovation initiatives and influence cross-functional alignment.
• Maintain a clear understanding of material performance when integrated into garment form.
• Manage potential risks and drive the concept fabric direction, with professional suggestions.
• Shorten development lead time through lean processes and innovation.
• Think strategically about daily work, develop others, and build up team culture.

• 10+ years of apparel industry experience
• Bachelor's degree in Textile Science, Apparel, or a related field
• Expertise across yarns, knitting, weaving, dyeing, printing, and finishing techniques
• Proficiency working with vendors from concept through production
• Experience working with domestic vendors/sample rooms/ateliers