Director, Fabric Research & Development

Job Description

Fabletics is currently looking for a Director, Fabric Research & Development.

How Do You Fit In? 

As the Director, Fabric Research & Development you will be responsible for managing raw materials strategy, raw materials development and mill capacity for all raw materials globally. This role ensures that bulk materials meet our brands standards and cost targets and works with production to ensure on time delivery of bulk production. In addition, the Director, Fabric Research & Development will work cross-functionally with the Design, Production, Merchandising and Product Development teams in meeting aesthetic, timing, cost and testing parameters related to all materials. This role is critical in ensuring that raw material suppliers meet our high-quality standards and deliver on time in order to enable our accelerated supply chain strategy.

This position will report to the SVP, Product Development & Sourcing.

What you will do:

• Lead a passionate team of materials professionals and develop the material sourcing and development strategy
• Work with internal and external partners to develop and deliver regular trend and technology analysis on materials.
• Work directly with Design and Product Development team to develop and select materials for use on products in seasonal collection
• Ensures that all materials developed can meet our high quality and environmental standards in production
• Work with cross functional partners to manage booking mill capacity at all raw material suppliers globally
• Ensure quarterly/monthly item level commitments are signed off by management and communicated to mills and deliveries agreed upon in order to ensure on time delivery of product
• Actualize capacity booked against projections
• Ensure delivery on time delivery of materials to various production facilities by maintaining fabric WIP reports
• Work with mills, testing labs and Product Development to oversee quality of all bulk materials inclusive of but not limited to construction, finishing, hand feel, color, print and fiber content
• Manage testing lab budget and oversee invoicing
• Lead in season raw material issue resolution and troubleshooting of fabric related issues including issuing additional lab tests
• Guide team on production care label instructions
• Manage production liability catalog and communicate to cross functional team monthly
• Develop and manage KPI’s to evaluate performance of all strategic suppliers
• Work with design and R&D to provide a feedback loop on mill performance to affect future seasons
• Provide input to global sourcing strategy

What you can bring:

• 10+ years of experience in materials development and research with a focus on performance/athletic fabrics
• 5+ years of people management experience
• Specific knowledge and experience developing woven and knits is necessary
• Experience with technical fabrics, warp knits and seamless garment construction preferred
• Bachelor’s degree or technical education in Textile Science or Fashion Design
• Excellent MS Excel ability
• Detail oriented with ability to multitask
• Thorough understanding of apparel product development, testing and related environmental or regulatory concerns
• Strong written and verbal communication skills    
• Experience with domestic and overseas vendors a must
• Able to work in a fast-paced, dynamic environment
• Resourceful with the ability to troubleshoot problems

Compensation & Total Rewards: 

At Fabletics, we believe work and life should fit together! We continue to build a culture of flexibility, to empower you to do your best and put yourself first. Our Total Rewards program rewards employees for their hard work, supporting their health, well-being, families, and ultimately their life journey. Total Rewards at Fabletics includes:  

-Hybrid Work Schedule*  - Tuesday, Wednesday, and Thursday onsite

-Discretionary Paid Time Off*   

-Summer Fridays*   

-Healthcare Plans   

-Employee Discounts   

-401k   

-Annual Bonus Program   

-Equity Program*   

-And More   

*Varied for retail, fulfillment and fully remote roles.  

The annual base salary range for this position is from $133,100-$180,000. The range provided includes the base salary that Fabletics expects to pay for the role. Offered base salary will be dependent on factors including the scope and complexity of the role, candidate’s related work experience, subject matter expertise and work location.  

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Security Alert: Protect yourself from scams

At Fabletics, we're dedicated to recruiting top talent who share our drive for innovation. To safeguard candidates, Fabletics emphasizes legitimate recruitment practices. Initial communication is primarily via official email addresses and LinkedIn; beware of deviations. Personal data and sensitive information will not be solicited during the application phase. Interviews are conducted via phone, in person, or through the approved platforms Teams or Zoom—never via messaging apps or other calling services. Offers are merit-based, communicated verbally, and followed up in writing. If personal information is requested to initiate the hiring process, rest assured it will be through secure and protected means.

About TechStyleOS

TechStyleOS is the globally integrated Operations and Services provider behind some of the fastest growing online fashion brands in history, including Fabletics, Savage X Fenty, JustFab, ShoeDazzle, and FabKids. With capabilities spanning technology, data science, supply chain management, fulfillment, customer service, and more, we help brands launch, scale and grow—across product categories and geographically. From predictive analytics to data-driven marketing and attribution, our unique approach is powered by our proprietary, end-to-end tech platform that enables the brands we serve to deliver a level of personalization, value, and satisfaction that are unrivaled in the fashion industry.

Fabletics, Inc. is an equal opportunity employer. We recruit, employ, compensate, develop, and promote regardless of race, national origin, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, age, disability, genetic information, veteran status, and other protected status as required by applicable. At Fabletics, Inc., we champion a vibrant workplace culture that thrives on diversity law and do not tolerate discrimination or harassment. We are one team from many backgrounds, innovating through diversity of individuals, who are driven by passion for creating an inclusive space for all. Fabletics, Inc. will continue to champion a workplace culture that prizes diversity and inclusivity. 

We encourage you to apply regardless of meeting all qualifications and/or requirements.