Fabric R&D Manager

Disturbia; London; Hybrid; GBP 40,000 - 60,000; Full time

Job summary

Join a leading company in the fashion industry as an R&D Fabric Manager, where you'll lead innovative fabric development and sustainability efforts. Collaborate with designers and suppliers to craft captivating textiles that shape future collections. This role emphasizes creativity, teamwork, and a passion for sustainable practices.

Benefits

25 days annual leave, increasing with service

Performance bonus potential

Flexible and hybrid working arrangements

Private health insurance

Cycle to work scheme

Up to 50% employee discount

High street retail discounts

Team socials, treats, and special occasion benefits

Qualifications

• At least 5 years of experience in fabric R&D within the apparel industry.
• Strong knowledge of textile science and innovative fabric technologies.

Responsibilities

• Lead the development and research of new and innovative fabrications.
• Collaborate with design, buying, compliance, and technical teams.
• Manage relationships with fabric suppliers and negotiate contracts.

Skills

Project Management

Communication

Creative Problem-Solving

Education

Bachelor’s degree in Textile Engineering

Bachelor’s degree in Fashion Design

Job description

Join us at Disturbia, where we prioritize creativity and innovation in everything we do. We’re searching for an experienced R&D Fabric Manager to join our visionary Design and Production Team, leading the exploration and development of groundbreaking textiles that push the boundaries of fashion.

This role offers an opportunity to collaborate with designers, suppliers, and industry talent to craft captivating fabrics, shaping the future of our collections. Sustainability is a key focus, and we seek someone passionate about innovation, sustainability, and industry impact.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead the development and research of new and innovative fabrications, enhancing product development and sustainability.
• Create and maintain an archive of fabrics for each collection/season, including prints, trims, and hardware.
• Collaborate with design, buying, compliance, and technical teams to ensure fabric quality and specifications.
• Stay updated on industry trends, emerging technologies, and fabric treatments.
• Visit fabric sourcing fairs and build relationships with suppliers.
• Manage relationships with fabric suppliers, negotiate contracts, and develop strategies for flexible and sustainable sourcing.
• Negotiate pricing and sample yardage for fabric prototypes.
• Manage seasonal fabric libraries and review new swatches with relevant teams.
• Ensure fabrics meet safety and chemical compliance standards, including REACH and Oeko-Tex certifications.
• Build transparent sourcing relationships with fabric mills, ensuring traceability.
• Partner with technical teams to ensure best practices in fabric sourcing and garment care information.

Skills, Knowledge, and Expertise

• Bachelor’s degree in Textile Engineering, Fashion Design, or related field.
• At least 5 years of experience in fabric R&D within the apparel industry.
• Strong knowledge of textile science and innovative fabric technologies.
• Excellent project management, communication, and teamwork skills.
• Creative problem-solving, entrepreneurial mindset, and attention to detail.

Benefits

• 25 days annual leave, increasing with service
• Performance bonus potential
• Flexible and hybrid working arrangements
• Private health insurance
• Cycle to work scheme
• Up to 50% employee discount
• High street retail discounts
• Team socials, treats, and special occasion benefits

Additional Details

• Seniority level: Mid-Senior
• Employment type: Full-time
• Job function: Research, Analysis, IT
• Industry: Retail Apparel and Fashion