Sr. Manager, Textiles Development

ALO•Commerce, CA

3h•$135,000 - $150,000•Onsite

About The Position

The Sr. Manager of Textiles Development leads the strategic direction and execution of raw material innovation, and development. This role focuses on identifying and developing cutting-edge materials that align with the brand’s aesthetic, performance, and sustainability goals. Partnering closely with design, sourcing, and production teams, this individual ensures raw material innovations and seasonal developments are effectively integrated into the product lifecycle, from concept through commercialization.

Requirements

Bachelor’s degree in Textile Engineering, Materials Science, Fashion Design, or related field.
10+ years of experience in raw material development, innovation, or textile sourcing, preferably in the apparel industry.
Strong understanding of fabric construction, finishing, and performance testing.
Demonstrated experience driving material innovation, from concept to commercialization.
Knowledge of sustainability standards and certifications in textiles (e.g., GOTS, OEKO-TEX, bluesign®, etc.).
Exceptional project management and organizational skills.
Proven ability to lead cross-functional teams and manage external vendor relationships.
Proficient in PLM systems, material libraries, and data management tools.

Nice To Haves

Advanced degree preferred.

Responsibilities

Oversee raw material identification, testing, and development processes to meet design, functionality, and quality standards.
Drive the creation and refinement of fabric DNA, ensuring detailed documentation of material specifications.
Lead fabric trials, wear-testing, and performance validation, ensuring all materials meet the required standards for durability, comfort, and sustainability.
Champion the use of sustainable and responsible textiles, aligning with company goals for environmental impact reduction.
Ensure all materials meet applicable regulatory, quality, and safety standards.
Collaborate with design teams during the concept phase to ensure raw material feasibility and alignment with creative vision.
Partner with sourcing and product development teams to facilitate a seamless transition from development to production.
Lead regular cross-functional meetings to review material developments and align on milestones and timelines.
Manage and mentor a team of textile developers and coordinators, fostering growth and innovation.
Oversee workload allocation, skill development, and performance reviews for team members.
Continuously improve raw material development workflows to enhance efficiency, reduce lead times, and improve communication across teams.
Implement digital tools and systems to streamline material development and data tracking.