Fabric Lead, Women's Polo

Summary

The Fabric Lead directs fabric strategy, research, development, and execution across the Polo Women's business. This role partners with design, product development, sourcing, and production teams to deliver innovative fabrics that meet quality, cost, sustainability, and speed-to-market objectives.

Responsibilities

• Lead seasonal fabric strategy, research, development, and innovation.
• Identify fabric opportunities through trend research, competitive analysis, market insights, and supplier partnerships.
• Present fabric concepts and recommendations to leadership and cross-functional partners.
• Oversee development from concept through commercialization, ensuring quality, cost, and calendar alignment.
• Build global mill and supplier relationships and partner with development, sourcing, and production teams to resolve issues.
• Champion sustainable materials, maintain fabric libraries, and coach and develop team members.

Requirements

• Significant experience in textile research, fabric development, sourcing, and raw material innovation within apparel.
• Strong knowledge of fabric construction, commercialization, costing, sourcing, and product development calendars.
• Experience working with global mills and suppliers and knowledge of sustainable materials and emerging trends.
• Ability to influence and collaborate across functions, with strong leadership, communication, presentation, and organizational skills.