Manager, Raw Materials and R&D

Manager, Raw Materials and R&D

Come lead with us at 11215 Metro Pkwy, Fort Myers, FL

With approximately 1,300 boutiques and outlets throughout the U.S., as well as an online presence for each of our brands, it takes sophisticated technology, resources and infrastructure to ensure the continued success of our businesses. From finance and accounting to technology and merchandising careers, we have diverse opportunities available for talented professionals to join our team of nearly 16,000 associates who share our commitment to excellence.

Position Objective

This position is responsible for driving research, gathering, and development of a raw material area. Partners with cross-functional teams and external raw material suppliers in the development of high-quality, brand-right raw materials, in establishing, refining, and implementing raw material processes into the broader design and development process, internal and external. Partners with Textile Technologist to understand technical issues/limitations of the raw materials and works with raw materials to resolve/improve them.

Functional Responsibilities

• Researches & develops and gathers raw material assortments according to design direction, while proposing product improvements to elevate the quality of the brand.
• Drives the raw material development process and calendar; adhering to Time & Action (T&A) partnering with design and product development partners.
• Maintains, updates, and analyzes raw material projects ensuring fiscal and quality goals.
• Develops core and peripheral raw material qualities as directed to align with and support company’s strategy.
• Researches and stays abreast of aesthetic raw material trends and technological developments.
• Collaborates with design and merchant partners in the identification of core, key, and novelty raw material strategies.
• Considers a “speed to market” approach and supports existing pricing structure partnering with Sourcing.
• Suggests and drives creative solutions to raw material pricing challenges.
• Owns the maintenance of the raw material library and database.
• Forges global relationships with raw materials globally while developing & maintaining existing relationships through ongoing communication.
• Responsible for raw material pattern capabilities, ensuring commercially viable for bulk.
• Manages raw materials T&A in accordance PLC (product life cycle).
• Responsible for maintaining, updating, and analyzing raw material projects to ensure fiscal and quality goals are met.
• Develops core and peripheral raw material qualities as directed to align with and support company strategy.
• Drives ITR Testing processes and consults with Textile Technologist.
• Collaborates with design and merchant partners in the identification of core, key, and novelty raw material strategies.
• Other duties as assigned.
• Values individuality and the diverse talents of their team.
• Leads the team by communicating expectations, providing guidance, delivering feedback, and empowering the team to be their best.

This position may be found in multiple brands. Some duties may vary from brand to brand.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s Fine Arts degree required, preferably in Fashion Design or related field
• 7+ years’ experience in global raw material research and development within the apparel industry
• Management experience preferred
• Expert understanding of raw material process and ability to research raw material according to trend direction and to support business strategies and outlined seasonal expectations
• Very detail oriented and ability to drive to completion with strong communication, organizational, and problem-solving skills
• Current technical knowledge in area of raw material specialization as it relates to raw material qualities, specifically raw material construction, content, weaving/knitting, dyeing, printing, finishing, and washing techniques including raw material capabilities and limitations
• Strong knowledge of participating and evaluating raw material shows in research & development avenues
• Proficient computer skills in Microsoft office suite; emphasis in Excel and web-based applications
• Expert Adobe skills

Chico’s FAS, Inc. is an equal opportunity employer. We do not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, marital status, age, national origin, ancestry, physical or mental disability, medical condition, pregnancy, childbirth and related medical conditions, lactation, genetic information, gender, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, military service, veteran status, or any other category protected under federal, state, or local law.

Key skills/competency

• Raw Material Research
• Product Development
• Textile Technology
• Apparel Industry
• Trend Forecasting
• Supplier Relationship Management
• Quality Assurance
• Project Management
• Cross-functional Collaboration
• Fashion Design