Eddie Bauer, Inc. Hiring for SENIOR MANAGER, MATERIALS (Knits) at Bellevue, Washington Full Time

Overview

Develop and lead a team of functional experts in materials for all Knit Apparel categories for Eddie Bauer. Create and execute Materials strategy to drive innovation, meet design vision, satisfy merchant requirements, and positively impact company financial goals.

Responsibilities

Core Accountabilities:

• Lead the materials development process from concept to commercialization across assigned categories. Proactively investigate and resolve issues/potential issues as they arise.
• Oversee the efficient and effective execution of material developments. Ensure proactively communication to key partners. 
• Partner with Director, Materials and Product Line Merchants to establish seasonal cost targets and guidelines.
• Partner with and advise Design on the selection of materials that enable correct execution of seasonal direction; elevate concerns with material selection as necessary.
• Actively research and stay on top of material trends to ensure Eddie Bauer is at the forefront of the marketplace; Support the Director, Materials in the development of seasonal material strategy.
• Identify and develop new materials to drive innovation, meet design intent and satisfy merchant requirements.
• Align material development process with company calendar to consistently meet deadlines. Identify opportunities for process improvement.
• Initiate and implement any needed process changes and/or improvements.
• Ensure accuracy of materials data in all systems.
• Develop and maintain productive relationships with Mills and Suppliers; leading or participating in meetings as appropriate.
• Initiate early negotiations related to pricing; finalize pricing as needed.
• Partner with QA to set quality standards, address quality issues and establish new performance specifications, as necessary.
• Organize and maintain materials library for in-line and inspiration materials.
• Travel as necessary, both domestically and internationally.

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities

• Detailed technical knowledge of material development categories and critical applications.
• Comprehensive understanding of fibers, yarn, knitting, weaving, dyeing, and finishing chemistry & processes, and coating/laminating techniques.
• Knowledge of production and textile manufacturing processes and the impact of one process on another
• Proven expertise in materials development; ability to accurately evaluate/analyze test results and provide effective recommendations to cross functional partners.
• Lifelong learner who continuously seeks to expand functional knowledge and expertise by identifying and assimilating new technologies, innovations, ideas, and trends.
• Ability to thrive with a moderate level of guidance; self-motivated and driven to exceed expectations.
• Concise written and verbal communication skills with the ability to organize and maintain large quantities of technical information.
• Ability to develop strong working relationships with Materials and Sourcing partners in EB Asia office, Mills and Suppliers.
• Strong team orientation with proven ability to effectively collaborate with peers and cross-functional partners.
• Strong negotiation skills.
• Experience in overseas travel.

Qualifications

Education/Experience Required

• 4-year college degree in related field. 
• 8+ years of experience in fabric development, preferably for an active/outdoor retailer.
• Knowledge of apparel retail industry

Physical Requirements:

The physical demands described here are representative of those that are required by an associate to successfully perform the essential functions of this job. 

• While performing the duties of this job, the associate is regularly required to talk or hear. The associate is frequently required to sit; stand; walk; use hands to finger, handle or feel; as well as reach with hands and arms.
• The associate must frequently lift and/or move up to 15 pounds and occasionally lift and/or move up to 35 pounds. Specific vision abilities required by this job include close vision, distance vision, depth perception and ability to adjust focus.
• Ability to work in open environment with fluctuating temperatures and standard lighting.
• Ability to work on computer and mobile phone for multiple hours; with frequent interruptions.
• Required to travel in elevator or stairwells to attend meetings and engage with associates on multiple floors throughout building.
• Hotel, Airplane, and Car Travel Required.

Position Type/Expected Hours of Work:

This is a full-time position.  As an International Retailer, occasional evening and/or weekend work may be required during periods of high volume.  This role operates in a professional office environment and routinely uses standard office equipment.

Other Considerations:

Please note this job description is not designed to cover or contain a comprehensive listing of activities, duties or responsibilities that are required of the associate for this job. Duties, responsibilities and activities may change at any time with or without notice. Reasonable accommodations may be made to qualified individuals with disabilities to enable them to perform the essential functions of the role.