About the role

Aplyr's Quick Take

This role is about leading the development of innovative textiles for apparel, ensuring they meet design and performance standards while aligning with sustainability goals. It's a senior individual contributor position that requires collaboration with various teams and suppliers throughout the material sourcing process.

Good fit

Ideal candidates have extensive experience in textile development, strong project management skills, and a passion for sustainability. They should be comfortable working cross-functionally and influencing decisions.

Worth noting

The role emphasizes sustainability and requires knowledge of eco-friendly materials and certifications, which may appeal to candidates focused on environmental impact. The spec is vague on day-to-day responsibilities and specific reporting structures.

ABOUT YOUR ROLE:

We are looking for a passionate and experienced Senior Material Sourcing Developer to lead the development of innovative, high-performance materials that align with brand aesthetics, sustainability goals, and product creation timelines. This role serves as a key liaison between brand material development teams, product creation, and sourcing, ensuring materials meet design intent, performance standards, and commercial viability.

YOUR RESPONSIBILITIES WILL INCLUDE:

Material Development and Commercialization Support
Drive end-to-end development of textiles from concept to commercialization across multiple apparel categories.
Material Testing & Validation: Oversee testing protocols and performance validation to ensure materials meet quality, durability, and compliance standards.
Cross-Functional Collaboration
Act as the primary interface between brand material teams, product creation, and sourcing to ensure alignment on material strategy, timelines, and deliverables.
Supplier Engagement & Management
Partner with global mills and suppliers to develop innovative materials that meet brand and performance requirements, while ensuring cost and lead-time targets.
Supplier, Trend & Innovation Scouting
Stay ahead of industry trends, technologies, and innovations to bring forward-thinking material solutions to the brand.
Documentation & Reporting
Maintain accurate records of material specifications, development status, and testing results; support reporting needs for seasonal reviews and sourcing decisions.
Sustainability Integration
Champion the integration of sustainable materials and processes into the development pipeline in alignment with corporate sustainability goals.

WHAT WE WILL BE LOOKING FOR IN YOU:

Technical Expertise in Textiles
Deep understanding of textile construction, finishing, dyeing, and performance characteristics.
Project Management
Strong organizational and time management skills to manage multiple development timelines and seasonal calendars.
Communication & Influence
Excellent interpersonal and communication skills to collaborate across functions and influence decision-making.
Problem Solving
Ability to troubleshoot material issues and propose creative, commercially viable solutions.
Sustainability Knowledge
Familiarity with sustainable fibers, certifications (e.g., GRS, Oeko-Tex), and circular design principles.
Digital Tools Proficiency
Experience with PLM systems, Adobe Illustrator, and Microsoft Office Suite; familiarity with digital material libraries is a plus.
Global Supplier Management
Experience working with mills and vendors across Asia, Europe, and the Americas.

R-20260428-0033

Aplyr's read

VF Corporation stands out as a powerhouse in lifestyle apparel, attracting individuals passionate about outdoor and active brands like Vans and The North Face.
Synthesized from recent postings & public sources

What's promising

•VF Corporation boasts a strong portfolio with iconic brands like Vans and The North Face.
•The company has a global presence, enhancing brand reach and market influence.
•VF's focus on sustainability aligns with growing consumer demand for eco-friendly products.

What to watch

•Heavy reliance on a few key brands could pose risks if consumer preferences shift.
•Intense competition in the apparel industry may impact market share.
•Economic downturns can significantly affect discretionary spending on lifestyle apparel.

Why VF Corporation

•VF Corporation's brand diversity covers multiple lifestyle segments, from outdoor to urban.
•The company has a long-standing commitment to sustainability and innovation.
•VF's strategic acquisitions have strengthened its market position and brand portfolio.

Aplyr’s read is generated by AI from public sources. Was it useful?

About VF Corporation

VF Corporation

vfc.com

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VF Corporation is a global leader in branded lifestyle apparel, footwear, and accessories, known for its diverse portfolio of outdoor and active lifestyle brands.