Temporary Development / Materials Manager
Stoney Clover Lane•New York, NY
•Hybrid
About The Position
We are seeking a highly organized and detail-oriented Temporary Development / Materials Manager to support our product lifecycle from concept through pre-production. This role is critical in driving development execution, ensuring material and product standards are met, and maintaining strong communication across design, production, and vendor partners. The ideal candidate thrives in a fast-paced environment, demonstrates strong problem-solving skills, and has a deep understanding of materials, costing, and development processes within the fashion accessories industry.
Requirements
- 3–5+ years of experience in product development or materials management within fashion apparel or accessories (handbags strongly preferred)
- Prior management or leadership experience required
- Strong understanding of materials, construction techniques, and development workflows
- Experience working with overseas factories and global vendors
- Experience working with Leather
- Knowledge of testing, compliance, and retailer requirements
- Proven ability to manage multiple projects and deadlines simultaneously
- Strong analytical skills with a solid understanding of costing and margin structures
- Excellent communication, organizational, and problem-solving skills
- Proficiency in PLM systems, Excel, and other development tracking tools
Nice To Haves
- Detail-oriented with a proactive, solution-driven mindset
- Ability to thrive in a fast-paced, deadline-driven environment
- Strong team player with cross-functional collaboration skills
- Passion for fashion accessories and product innovation
Responsibilities
- Initiate and manage all print, fabric, trim, and material developments with suppliers
- Source new materials aligned with design direction, cost targets, and brand standards
- Gather and analyze material costing, minimums, and lead times to support margin goals
- Ensure all materials meet testing, compliance, and sustainability requirements where applicable
- Build and maintain strong relationships with mills and material vendors
- Partner closely with the Design Team to align on development details, expectations, and execution strategies
- Lead product development activities with factories from Tech Pack handoff through sample completion
- Issue and track all sample requests to vendors, ensuring adherence to development calendars and deadlines
- Proactively follow up with vendors on sample status, troubleshoot delays, and implement solutions to stay on track
- Maintain clear and consistent communication with all cross-functional teams regarding sample updates and risks
- Develop, review, and clearly communicate Bill of Materials (BOM) details to factories
- Partner with Design and Production to identify cost-saving opportunities without compromising quality
- Ensure all development samples meet quality standards, including materials, trims, construction, and packaging
- Oversee lab dips, strike-offs, and material approvals in collaboration with Design
- Ensure all products comply with retailer, brand, and licensed partner requirements (testing, labeling, packaging, etc.)
- Maintain a strong understanding of regulatory compliance standards across regions
- Collaborate with Production to communicate development history, risks, and any product-related challenges
- Support smooth transition from development to bulk production
- Work with internal teams to resolve issues related to materials, construction, or vendor execution
- Own and manage development timelines to ensure all milestones are met
- Communicate delays or risks proactively and recommend solutions
- Continuously improve development processes and workflows for efficiency and clarity
- Maintain an organized library of all development submissions, approvals, and records
- Track and archive lab dips, strike-offs, material swatches, and sample history
- Ensure accurate recordkeeping for future reference and production continuity
- Participate in design and development meetings, offering technical and material expertise
- Monitor industry trends in materials, sustainability, and manufacturing techniques
- Support special projects, seasonal initiatives, or urgent development needs as required
- Mentor junior team members and support staff
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What This Job Offers
Career Level
Mid Level
Education Level
No Education Listed
Number of Employees
11-50 employees
