Fashion Industry Subject Matter Expert

Attain Partners

20h

About The Position

Attain Partners is seeking an experienced Fashion Industry Subject Matter Expert to provide senior-level advisory support for the development of a multi-year strategic plan for the Fashion Institute of Technology (FIT). The SME will bring deep expertise in the consumer goods, fashion, and retailing sectors and serve as a strategic thought partner to validate findings, inform recommendations, and ensure the plan reflects current and emerging industry realities. This role is consultative and impact-driven, supporting institutional decision-making at the intersection of industry trends, workforce outcomes, and higher education strategy.

Requirements

10–15+ years of progressive experience within the consumer goods, fashion, and/or retailing industries
Demonstrated expertise across one or more of the following areas: fashion, retail, apparel, consumer products, brand strategy, merchandising, or related sectors
Prior experience contributing to or leading strategic planning, enterprise strategy, or transformation initiatives
Strong ability to translate industry insight into clear, actionable guidance for institutional leaders

Nice To Haves

Experience working with or advising higher education institutions, workforce development organizations, or mission-driven entities
Prior consulting, advisory, or board-level experience serving as a subject matter expert
Familiarity with how industry expectations intersect with student outcomes, curriculum design, and employer partnerships
Excellent communication skills with the ability to engage senior stakeholders

Responsibilities

Provide expert insight into consumer goods, fashion, and retail industry trends, including market dynamics, workforce needs, and future-facing capabilities
Advise on how industry trends should inform FIT’s multi-year strategic priorities and initiatives
Review and validate key project deliverables, including research findings, strategic options, and draft documentation
Contribute strategic recommendations grounded in real-world industry experience
Support synthesis of stakeholder input, particularly as it relates to industry alignment and employer expectations
Participate in select workshops, interviews, or planning sessions, and provide facilitation support as needed
Serve as a trusted advisor to confirm feasibility, relevance, and industry alignment of proposed strategies