Senior Materials Developer

SENIOR MATERIALS DEVELOPER

Introduction to careers at PEARL iZUMi:  

At PEARL iZUMi, we all play an integral role in our mission to “Unlock the Power of Inspiration and Impact” in a supportive, fast-paced and productive work environment.  This is why we exist, and all team members contribute in tangible and sometimes profound ways.  We are committed to building a team that represents a variety of backgrounds, perspectives and skills.  The more diverse we are, the better our work will be.  If you see value in “unlocking” this potential, then PEARL iZUMi could be the place for you.  We are looking for passionate like-minded people, fueled by an innate desire to work in an environment focused on team success.  Whether your role is to create, to sell, or to support, careers at PEARL iZUMi give you an opportunity to make a difference.

 We are also laser-focused on finding the right people who share our core values – Trust, Craft, Empathy, Impact, and Plus 1.  Check out our website to see how PEARL iZUMi defines and captures these critical internal values.  To be clear, we evaluate all candidates on their demonstrated commitment to these values.'

Overview of Role:                     

The Senior Materials Developer is responsible for driving the material commercialization, development and innovation process for technical apparel at PEARL iZUMi. They will work cross functionally with the Design, Development, and Merchandising teams throughout the Product Creation Process adhering to calendar deadlines. The Senior Materials Developer will supervise and execute material developments ensuring they are suitable for the desired application from a quality, cost and strategic sourcing perspective. They will manage long range material line planning, sustainability initiatives, supply chain reduction and seasonal adoption management. 

Essential Duties/Responsibilities:

• Manage on time development of seasonal material and trims with a focus on sustainability, function and performance needs, quality, cost, and MOQs.
• Maintain a forward-looking innovation strategy that anticipates the needs of our consumer, as well as changes in trend and new developments in technology.
• Manage long-range material line planning strategy, partnering with cross-functional teams to identify phase-out and replacement opportunities, as well as Deadstock initiatives and volume driver identification.
• Work closely with Material Planner on Supply Chain Team to align on seasonal opportunities, risks and solutions. Align seasonal Sourcing plan to optimize supply chain, costs and lead times.
• Work with Raw Material Suppliers on cost, minimum order quantities and lead time negotiations to ensure most viable solution is adopted into toolbox for seasonal product use. 
• Manage Supplier relationships and ensure timely communication and follow-up.
• Work with Quality, Development and Sourcing Teams to develop SOP around Material Quality Assurance prior to production - facilitate internal testing of new Toolbox Material Lots as needed (in conjunction w/ Wear Testing).
• Manage weekly cross-functional team meetings to discuss material developments, applications and strategies to ensure alignment amongst all team members.
• Manage all fabric details, costs, surcharges, lead times and order/color minimums (MDS reports) from all Raw Material Suppliers and ensure PLM System has been updated with all accurate data capture.
• Manage HIGG strategy amongst cross-functional teams, act as sustainability lead. Manage seasonal HIGG material scoring and sustainable identification platform.
• Facilitate Material Line Plan rationalization and feasibility of adoption with Supply Chain Team.

Job Qualifications:  

• B.S. in materials engineering, textile engineering, textile design preferred.
• Minimum 3-5 years’ experience in material development and innovation in performance apparel, knowledge of fabric/garment production process, mechanical and chemical treatments.
• Thorough understanding of materials and the processes required to ensure successful adoption into product development, commercialization, and production.
• Proven track record of implementing an effective material sourcing strategy that delivers on cost, quality, and delivery.
• Strong global network of material partners (suppliers / mills) and the ability to interact with them at a high level of business acumen, including negotiations.
• Highly organized with the ability to independently manage a material development calendar.
• Ability to travel internationally to trade shows and fabric mills.
• Coach internal partners to elevate material knowledge throughout the organization.
• Excellent communication skills that foster collaboration and drives effective decision making.

NOTE:  This job description is not intended to be an exhaustive list of all duties, responsibilities, or qualification associated with the job.  The successful candidate will be expected to perform all functions from administrative processing to leading change initiatives.