Manager, Fabric Research & Development - Sweaters and Knits

Location: New York, New York US

Notice

This position is no longer open.

Job Number: 2169

Position Title: Mgr R&D

External Description:

POSITION OVERVIEW:
Working with the Senior Vice President (SVP) Design & Fabric, the Manager, Research & Development is responsible for understanding the market trends in order to translate seasonal yarn and fabric development appropriate for the design vision and the Talbots brand needs.

PRINCIPAL ACCOUNTABILITIES INCLUDE :

  • Partners with SVP and cross-functional partners to create and execute a seasonal fabric and yarn strategy that support business goals including IMU goals.
  • Research global, domestic, and competitive markets to identify new trends, fabrics, yarns, and techniques, while maintaining Talbots brand integrity and business strategy.
  • Occasional travel (domestic and internationally) for research and development; attend local and global fabric and yarn trade shows and mill visits.
  • Explore market for new mills and/or change in current mill base – make recommendations and identifying opportunities for potential negotiation and staying ahead of market.
  • Collaborate with Product Integrity/Quality Assurance team during seasonal sampling testing to highlight potential issues and identify possible solutions.
  • Responsible for the approval process of all seasonal sample development cuts and setting quality standards.
  • Adhere to calendar to ensure all development dates are adhered to and attends all meetings as required.
  • Responsible for all yarn and fabric development order system management.
  • Continue to develop and increase understanding of Talbots customer.
  • People Management:
    • Responsible for the recruiting, development and retention of team member(s)
    • Mentor, coach, and counsel direct report(s) on performance expectations
    • Provide a positive, challenging work environment
    • Recognize and reward talent and accomplishments of direct report(s)
  • Key partners include: Design, Sourcing, Product Integrity/QA, Merchandising, Product Development, Vendors and Agents

KNOWLEDGE AND EXPERIENCE:

  • Strong communication skills (written, verbal and present) with proven success to positively influence partners to meet business goals
  • Understand the processes and strategies supporting both Production and Design
  • Knowledge and understanding of the fabric business and development process
  • Technical knowledge of yarns, textiles, construction, dyeing/finishing techniques
  • Strong design aesthetic
  • Ability to anticipate, be proactive and partner to arrive at viable solutions

PRIOR WORK EXPERIENCE AND EDUCATIONAL REQUIREMENTS:

  • Bachelor’s Degree
  • 6+ years textile and apparel product development and sourcing experience 
  • Strong proficiency with Product Development/Management Systems

 

City:

State:

Community / Marketing Title: Manager, Fabric Research & Development - Sweaters and Knits

Company Profile:

Talbots is a leading omni-channel specialty retailer of women's clothing, shoes and accessories. Established in 1947, the company is known for modern classic style that's both timeless and timely, fine quality craftsmanship and gracious service. At Talbots relationships are the key to our business, we hire individuals who bring new ideas to the table, understand smart risk taking and  can enhance an already thriving culture.  With a commitment to offer modern classic style for every body type, through a  full range of sizes, inclusive to every woman in your life.

EEO Employer Verbiage:

Talbots is an equal opportunity employer and welcomes applications from diverse candidates. Hiring decisions are based upon a candidate's qualifications as they relate to the requirements of the position under consideration and are made without regard to race, sex, national origin, color, age, disability, veteran status, pregnancy, sexual orientation, religion, or any other category protected by applicable law. Talbots is committed to providing reasonable accommodations for job applicants with disabilities. If you require an accommodation to perform the essential duties of the position you are seeking or to participate in the application process please contact recruiting@talbots.com. Talbots will make reasonable accommodations for otherwise qualified applicants or employees, unless such accommodations would impose an undue hardship on the operations of the Company’s business.

PositionType_Description: Full Time

Location_formattedLocationLong: New York, New York US

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