Fabric Sourcing Manager Job Description Overview
As a Fabric Sourcing Manager in the Textile/Apparel sector, you play a pivotal role in the success of our company by overseeing the sourcing of high-quality fabrics essential for our products. Your ability to identify and secure the best materials directly impacts our product quality, production timelines, and ultimately, customer satisfaction.
- The importance of this role lies in ensuring that our textile and apparel products meet the highest standards of quality, durability, and sustainability.
- By collaborating with design, production, and quality control teams, you contribute to streamlined processes, efficient workflows, and the achievement of company-wide goals.
- You are at the forefront of industry trends, innovations, and challenges, staying ahead of the curve to secure cutting-edge materials for our products.
- Key stakeholders you engage with include suppliers, designers, production managers, and senior leadership, illustrating your critical position within the company’s structure.
- Success in this role is measured by your ability to secure cost-effective, high-quality fabrics, maintain supplier relationships, meet production deadlines, and optimize sourcing processes, all reflected in key performance indicators (KPIs).
Key Responsibilities
As the Fabric Sourcing Manager, you will be responsible for:
- Project Planning and Execution: You will plan and execute sourcing projects, ensuring timely delivery of quality fabrics within budget constraints.
- Problem-Solving and Decision-Making: Addressing sourcing challenges, negotiating contracts, and making strategic decisions to optimize fabric procurement.
- Collaboration with Cross-Functional Teams: Working closely with design, production, and quality assurance teams to align fabric choices with product specifications.
- Leadership and Mentorship: Providing guidance to junior sourcing team members, fostering a culture of continuous improvement and excellence.
- Process Improvement and Innovation: Identifying opportunities to enhance sourcing processes, adopt new technologies, and drive innovation in fabric selection.
- Technical or Customer-Facing Responsibilities: Engaging with fabric suppliers, conducting quality assessments, and ensuring materials meet technical specifications.
Required Skills and Qualifications
To excel in this role, you need to possess the following skills and qualifications:
- Technical Skills: Proficiency in fabric testing, sourcing software, supplier management tools, ERP systems, and data analysis for informed decision-making.
- Educational Requirements: Bachelor’s degree in Textile Engineering, Supply Chain Management, or a related field.
- Experience Level: Minimum of 5 years in fabric sourcing, preferably in the textile/apparel industry, with a proven track record of successful supplier relationships.
- Soft Skills: Strong communication skills, negotiation prowess, problem-solving abilities, leadership qualities, and adaptability to dynamic sourcing environments.
- Industry Knowledge: In-depth understanding of textile manufacturing processes, global sourcing trends, sustainability practices, and regulatory compliance in fabric procurement.
Preferred Qualifications
In addition to the required qualifications, the following would make you stand out:
- Experience in leading fabric sourcing initiatives in multinational corporations.
- Holding advanced certifications in procurement, sustainable sourcing, or supply chain management.
- Familiarity with AI tools for predictive analysis, automation in sourcing, and emerging technologies in textile production.
- Demonstrated experience in scaling sourcing operations across international markets and implementing process improvements for efficiency.
- Active participation in textile industry conferences, speaking engagements, or published articles showcasing thought leadership.
- Proficiency in a second language to facilitate communication with global suppliers and partners.
Compensation and Benefits
We offer a comprehensive compensation package that includes:
- Base Salary: Competitive salary commensurate with experience and industry standards.
- Bonuses & Incentives: Performance-based bonuses, profit-sharing opportunities, and stock options.
- Health & Wellness: Medical, dental, and vision insurance coverage, along with wellness programs to support your well-being.
- Retirement Plans: 401k plan with employer matching contributions and pension schemes for long-term financial security.
- Paid Time Off: Generous vacation days, sick leave, parental leave, and personal days for work-life balance.
- Career Growth: Access to training programs, courses, mentorships, and professional development opportunities to enhance your skills and advance your career.
Application Process
If you are interested in the Fabric Sourcing Manager position, here’s what to expect:
- Submitting Your Application: Please submit your resume and a cover letter outlining your fabric sourcing experience through our online application portal.
- Initial Screening: Our HR team will review your application and reach out to schedule a screening interview to discuss your qualifications and interest in the role.
- Technical and Skills Assessment: Depending on the role requirements, you may be asked to complete a test, case study, or practical demonstration of your sourcing skills.
- Final Interview: Successful candidates will be invited to a final interview with the hiring manager to assess your fit for the role and our company culture.
- Offer and Onboarding: Upon selection, you will receive an official offer detailing your compensation package and start the onboarding process to integrate smoothly into our team.
