Global Materials Innovation & Development Lead

G/FORE; United States; On-site; USD 120,000 - 170,000; Full time

Job summary

G/FORE in Los Angeles seeks a Material Research & Development Manager to lead material strategy, supplier development, and commercialization from concept to production.

You will partner with Design, Product Development, and Production to ensure fabrics meet brand vision, performance targets, and calendars while building a global supplier network and driving continuous improvement across quality, cost, and lead times.

Qualifications

• Experience leading material strategy programs.
• Strong supplier management experience across fabrics, trims, and finishes.
• Ability to translate brand vision into material specifications and cost targets.

Responsibilities

• Develop and execute long-term material strategies aligned to brand direction, product needs and margin targets.
• Identify innovative fabrics, yarns, finishes, and trims to elevate product and differentiate the brand.
• Own material commercialization from concept through production, ensuring readiness against milestones and deadlines.
• Partner with Design and Product Development at season start to guide material direction and feasibility.
• Build, manage, and optimize a global supplier network and strengthen existing relationships.
• Drive continuous improvements in material quality, cost, and lead-time efficiency.
• Oversee material libraries and platforms to ensure accuracy and consistency across teams.
• Lead testing and ensure compliance with performance and regulatory standards.
• Review lab dips, strike-offs, knit downs, bulk approvals, and prototypes for alignment with design intent.
• Negotiate pricing, MOQs, lead times, and development capabilities with suppliers.
• Analyze material data, reporting, and testing outcomes to identify risks and opportunities.
• Collaborate cross-functionally to resolve material issues and integrate into timelines.
• Attend fabric shows and mill visits to stay ahead of trends and strengthen partnerships.

Skills

Material strategy

Supplier management

Cross-functional leadership

Process improvement

Job description

G/FORE in Los Angeles seeks a Material Research & Development Manager to lead material strategy, supplier development, and commercialization from concept to production.

You will partner with Design, Product Development, and Production to ensure fabrics meet brand vision, performance targets, and calendars while building a global supplier network and driving continuous improvement across quality, cost, and lead times.