Ann Taylor - Retail- Manager, Fabric Research and Development

Job Description:Job Title: Manager, Fabric Research and Development Reports To: Senior Director, Fabric Research and Development Key Interactions: Production, Design, Merchandising, Technical Services, Production Position Overview: The Fabric Research and Development Manager drives the seasonal development of fabric in alignment with divisional sourcing strategy, for multiple and/or high volume departments. This person ensures design vision and product integrity standards are met while adhering to the Product Lifecycle Calendar and meeting financial goals. This role also champions the company's Values & Practices by maintaining effective collaborative relationships, taking pride in the company and brand, and embracing diversity.Primary Responsibilities/Accountabilities: Sources fabrics & trims to meet design vision, merchandising requirements & corporate goals Research and develop new fabrications from all regions of mill matrix for all divisions with an emphasis on casual and wash direction Collaborates with Production to strategize country allocation for seasonal development Interacts with cross functional team in building seasonal assortments to align with corporate strategies Monitors, maintains & recaps seasonal design development and maintenance of fabric recipes for specific departments Development and establishment of fabric handstandards, including wash standards for your specific departments Helps maintain, consolidate and update categories in fabric library on a consistent basis Requests and monitors flow of initial costing and time & action calendars Daily communication with overseas offices and domestic agents to ensure smooth and efficient communication as it relates to development of seasonal fabrics as well as troubleshooting issues with technical and logistical issues of seasonal fabrics Co-ordinates Design spec pass-off to Technical ServicesPosition Requirements: Bachelors degree, in a related field of study, or equivalent functional experience Minimum 5 years related work experience in product development Knowledge of fabric and basic garment construction Ability to interpret design concept to align to brand vision Flexible/adaptable in a fast paced environment Strong team orientation and ability to maintain collaborative working relationships Strong communication, presentation, negotiation and decision-making skills International travel experience is a plus Proficient in Microsoft Office ApplicationsExpected Travel Time: None