The Material Sourcing Specialist manages end-to-end development, commercialization, and supplier relationships, with a primary focus on leather alongside fabrics, trims, and hardware. This role bridges design innovation, technical feasibility, and commercial targets to deliver high-quality materials from concept through bulk production.
Key Responsibilities
- Source and develop seasonal collections of leather, textiles, hardware, and trims aligned with design, aesthetic, cost, and performance criteria.
- Track raw material market trends, supplier innovations, and commodity pricing fluctuations.
- Identify, evaluate, and onboard global suppliers across key manufacturing regions, assessing quality, lead time, capacity, and cost competitiveness.
- Lead seasonal price negotiations, annual cost reviews, and value-engineering initiatives to meet target FOB objectives without compromising quality.
- Validate the technical and commercial viability of materials prior to bulk release, establishing clear technical data sheets and material specifications.
- Ensure all sourced materials comply with international regulations (e.g., REACH, RSL), physical testing protocols, and corporate quality benchmarks.
- Drive sustainable sourcing initiatives by prioritizing certified tanneries, recycled textiles, low-impact finishing methods, and traceable supply chains.
Qualifications
- 5-8 years of experience in raw material sourcing and development, with demonstrated expertise in leather goods, handbags, footwear, or premium fashion accessories.
- Strong understanding of tanning chemistry, hide grading, weaving/knitting, hardware manufacturing, and material testing standards.
- Proven negotiation and vendor management skills; strong commercial acumen and cost-breakdown analysis; structured project management capability.
- Advanced proficiency in Microsoft Excel; professional fluency in English (written and verbal). Existing relationships with international tanneries and material mills is an asset.
