Materials Development Manager
A leading technical apparel and outdoor products company is seeking a Materials Development Manager to lead the strategy, direction, and execution of materials development across multiple performance-driven product lines. This role will guide the evolution of the materials function, delivering high-performance and innovative solutions aligned with brand, product, and business objectives.
The position combines deep technical materials expertise with team leadership, including setting priorities, developing team capabilities, and driving cross-functional alignment. The Materials Development Manager will partner closely with internal teams and external suppliers to support long-term innovation, product performance, and scalability.
This is a compelling opportunity to shape material strategy and influence product innovation across highly regarded technical apparel brands.
Key Responsibilities
- Lead a small materials team while defining and driving the material development strategy aligned to brand vision, product roadmaps, and business goals.
- Manage and develop the materials team through hiring, coaching, performance management, and capability building.
- Establish priorities and manage workloads across seasonal calendars to ensure timely execution and delivery.
- Oversee the development and implementation of new materials, ensuring performance, durability, quality, and cost objectives are achieved.
- Own and advance the material innovation pipeline by identifying new technologies, materials, and supplier capabilities.
- Build and manage strategic supplier relationships, including mills and development partners, to support innovation and scalability.
- Collaborate cross-functionally with Design, Product Development, Sourcing, and Operations to align material direction and product integration.
- Oversee material testing standards and validation processes to ensure consistency, compliance, and performance expectations.
- Drive continuous improvement of material development processes to enhance efficiency, quality, and speed to market.
- Establish and monitor key performance indicators, using data to inform decisions and improve outcomes.
- Identify and mitigate risks related to materials, suppliers, and development timelines.
- Oversee material library strategy and infrastructure to support current development and future innovation.
Desired Competencies
Leadership: Ability to inspire, guide, and empower others by setting clear direction, fostering trust, and creating an environment where team members feel supported, motivated, and accountable.
Collaboration: Ability to work effectively across functions and levels, contributing to shared goals while respecting different perspectives.
Technical / Functional Expertise: Strong technical and professional knowledge within materials development, with the ability to stay current on innovation, performance standards, and industry trends.
Qualifications
- Bachelor’s degree required; degrees in Textile Development, Materials Engineering, or a related field preferred.
- 7+ years of experience in materials or textile development for technical products.
- Experience in technical outerwear required; experience with powersports, snow, moto, or related performance apparel preferred.
- Expertise in waterproof/breathable fabrics, insulation technology, and protective textiles.
- Strong experience managing global supplier networks and strategic mill partnerships.
- Proven ability to set direction, prioritize work, and manage multiple initiatives across seasonal timelines.
- Strong leadership, communication, and cross-functional influence skills.
- Advanced analytical, problem-solving, and decision-making capabilities.
- Deep understanding of apparel manufacturing processes, costing, and material application.
- Ability to travel domestically and internationally up to 10%.
- This position is not eligible for sponsorship.
- Role is based on-site in the Mountain West region with a hybrid work environment.