Materials Manager

REI (Recreational Equipment Inc.)•Seattle, WA

13h

About The Position

The Materials Manager – Gear & Advanced Innovation leads the development, validation, and commercialization of advanced material systems for REI Gear categories. This role focuses on technical fabrics and systems—including coatings, laminations, membranes, bonded constructions, and surface technologies—and drives open innovation with mills, chemical suppliers, and external partners. This role bridges material science and product execution, translating emerging technologies into scalable, production-ready solutions that meet REI’s performance, durability, sustainability, and supply-chain requirements.

Requirements

Bachelor's or Master’s degree in Materials Science, Textile Technology, or related field.
7+ years of experience in material development, sourcing, and sustainability within the outdoor or related industries.
Proven ability to lead teams and manage cross-functional projects in a global, fast-paced environment.
Strong technical expertise in fabric, coating, lamination and insulation, with hands-on experience in commercialization.
Deep understanding of sustainability certifications and industry standards (e.g., Textile Exchange, GRS).
Exceptional negotiation, communication, and relationship-building skills.

Responsibilities

Inspire and lead a high-performing team of material developers, providing coaching, mentorship, and professional development.
Define key responsibilities and practices to promote teamwork, innovation, and confidence in leadership.
Foster a culture of collaboration and accountability, supporting cross-functional goals across Materials design, product strategy, sourcing, and sustainability.
Develop and execute a strategic multi-season material development aligned with REI’s product and brand goals.
Evaluate material performance, quality, and sustainability to meet REI Co-op Brands’ aesthetic, functional, and environmental requirements.
Partner with Material design and product development teams to deliver innovative material stories that reflect consumer insights and field use.
Drive continuous improvement by assessing risks, addressing challenges, and refining materials through lab and 3rd party testing validation processes.
Cultivate and maintain strategic relationships with global and regional suppliers, driving efficiency and optimizing the materials portfolio.
Oversee vendor performance and conduct on-site troubleshooting to ensure adherence to quality and delivery standards.
Provide technical guidance during production trials and commercial transfers, ensuring smooth execution and scalability.
Plan and execute materials calendars and processes, ensuring milestones are achieved across departments.
Attend material shows and industry events to source new materials and gain insights into supplier capabilities.
Collaborate with HQ teams to support innovation projects and ensure successful regional implementation.
Develop and maintain a strategic toolbox of materials that enhance profitability and operational efficiency.