We’re partnering with a luxury fashion brand seeking a Freelance Raw Materials Development & Global Sourcing Specialist to lead the end-to-end raw materials strategy across Ready-to-Wear, Cut & Sew, Leather, and Accessories. This role will oversee material development, global sourcing, supplier partnerships, and cross-functional collaboration to ensure materials meet the brand’s quality, aesthetic, cost, and timeline objectives from concept through production.
Key Responsibilities:
- Lead raw materials development from concept through bulk production
- Develop sourcing strategies for fabrics, leathers, trims, and specialty materials
- Partner with Design, Product Development, Merchandising, Production, and Supply Planning
- Manage material development calendars, line plans, and development milestones
- Build and maintain relationships with global mills, tanneries, factories, and suppliers
- Oversee testing, quality standards, washes, dyes, finishes, and specialty treatments
- Negotiate vendor lead times, capacity, and production timelines
- Drive sustainable material innovation and sourcing initiatives
- Monitor material shipments and ensure production readiness
- Lead, mentor, and develop the Raw Materials team
- Identify opportunities to improve sourcing, development, and supply chain processes
Qualifications:
- 5 years of Raw Materials Development and Global Sourcing experience
- Strong background in luxury or contemporary apparel
- Expert knowledge of fabrics, leathers, trims, washes, dyes, finishes, and material development
- Experience managing global mills, tanneries, factories, and suppliers
- 5+ years of people management experience
- Proven experience leading end-to-end raw materials development
- Strong cross-functional communication and leadership skills
- Experience working with overseas vendors and supply chain partners
- Bachelor’s degree in Fashion, Textiles, Production, or a related field preferred
Ideal Background:
Candidates with experience leading Raw Materials, Fabric R&D, Material Development, Textile Development, or Global Sourcing for luxury or premium apparel brands. Experience with knits, wovens, leather, trims, sustainable materials, washes, dyes, finishes, and global supplier management is highly preferred. Candidates should have a strategic mindset, strong leadership skills, and the ability to manage multiple cross-functional initiatives in a fast-paced environment.
