Materials Manager – Handbags- Onsite

Materials Manager – Handbags
- Onsite
- New York

We’re partnering with a well‑known fashion brand seeking an experienced Raw Materials Manager to lead sourcing, development, and execution across handbags & footwear. This is a highly cross‑functional role ideal for someone with strong expertise in leather, trims, hardware, supplier management, and global sourcing within a fast‑paced, design‑driven environment.

• Lead raw material sourcing and development across handbags & footwear and accessories categories, with a focus on leather, trims, hardware, and specialty materials
• Partner closely with Design, Product Development, Merchandising, and Production teams to support seasonal product creation from concept through execution
• Drive material innovation by identifying new sources, fabrication techniques, finishes, and construction solutions aligned with brand direction
• Manage global vendor and supplier relationships, including overseas sourcing partners, mills, tanneries, and trim suppliers
• Oversee costing strategy, supplier negotiations, MOQ management, and lead time optimization
• Support bulk purchasing execution and ensure material readiness against production timelines
• Establish and maintain quality standards, approval processes, testing compliance, and risk mitigation strategies
• Maintain accurate material documentation, pricing records, vendor details, and development timelines within PLM/internal systems
• Monitor market trends, supplier capabilities, and sourcing opportunities to strengthen the material pipeline
• Provide leadership, mentorship, and strategic support to junior team members as needed

• 8+ years of experience in raw materials development, sourcing, or procurement within footwear and/or accessories
• Strong background in leather, trims, hardware, and specialty material development
• Experience managing global vendor relationships and overseas sourcing partnerships
• Deep understanding of costing, production timelines, MOQs, and manufacturing constraints
• Proven negotiation skills and experience driving sourcing efficiencies
• Prior leadership or team management experience preferred
• Proficiency in Excel and PLM systems
• Highly organized, detail‑oriented, and comfortable managing multiple priorities in a deadline‑driven environment

• Deep expertise in leather and trim development, particularly within leather handbags and footwear
• Strong preference for candidates with leather handbag materials experience; footwear experience is also highly valuable
• Need someone who understands the full end‑to‑end raw materials process including:
• Development timelines
• Testing and compliance
• Factory communication
• Sampling and production execution
• Vendor management
• Bulk approvals and production readiness
• Candidate will lead the full materials development process and oversee all related execution