Product Development & Materials Manager
We are looking for:
Role Overview
Responsible for leading and executing the development and sourcing of materials for J.Hilburn. The focus is to maintain trend and cost-effectiveness each season and forecasting based on mill insights. You are the key liaison between design, merchandising, planning, sourcing, and external supplier (mill and factory) teams. You ensure that fabric, trim, and garment development aligns with seasonal creative direction, achieves cost targets, and meets timeline objectives.
This is an onsite position, Monday through Thursday, Fridays are remote.
Core Accountabilities and Responsibilities
Material Sourcing and Development
Partner with the Design, Merchandising, Production and factory teams to drive sourcing and develop new fabrics, trims, and products with clear guidance from Design leadership ensuring cost and creative integrity is maintained
Set up the products and fabric in system accurately and in time for launch.
Ensure the factory set up products and fabric correctly in their system.
Maintain strong vendor relationships with fabric mills and trim suppliers globally, identifying new partners as needed.
Negotiate pricing, minimums, lead times, and delivery terms to meet cost and margin goals.
Ensure all materials and products meet performance, quality, and sustainability standards as defined by the brand.
Calendar Timeline and Management
Manage seasonal material and product development calendars to ensure all deliverables are met on time.
Monitor and communicate risks or delays proactively with proposed solutions.
Maintain detailed records of development milestones, testing, and approvals.
Cross-Functional Collaboration
Collaborate closely with Design to align material development with seasonal creative direction and aesthetic goals.
Partner with Merchandising and Planning to understand business strategies, cost targets, and delivery requirements.
Work with Technical Design to ensure materials function appropriately across fits, categories, and performance needs.
Participate in cross-functional meetings to keep teams informed of material and product updates, risks, and development timelines.
Vendor & Supply Chain management
Analyze vendor performance and recommend changes to optimize quality, speed, and cost efficiency.
Stay current on global sourcing trends, trade regulations, and innovations in materials technology and sustainability.
Qualifications:
Required Knowledge, Skills and Abilities
Strong leadership and people management skills with the ability to inspire and develop a team.
Highly organized, detail-oriented, and able to manage multiple projects and timelines.
Proficient in PLM, Excel, and production tracking systems.
Excellent communication, negotiation, and cross-functional collaboration skills.
Required Education and Experience
Bachelor’s degree in business or fashion based education (design, textiles, or merchandising)
5+ years of experience in apparel industry in product development or production roles. Experience in luxury is desired
Knowledge of fabric performance and construction· Proven ability to negotiate with vendors and manage global sourcing relationships.
Proven experience with costing, sourcing, and factory/vendor management.
Travel
Anticipated travel is minimal for this position.