Associate Manager - Fabric Research and Development

Title: Associate Manager - Fabric R&D

Location: New Albany, OH 43054

Job Description:
About us

Our founder, Lena Bryant didn't set out to change fashion forever, but that's exactly what she did. 120 years later, Lane Bryant remains the iconic plus-size brand. Empowering women is kind of our thing. Our inclusive community of customers and associates champions the acceptance of all sizes, shapes, and people. If you believe in the power of clothes to create confidence and empower self-expression, you'll be at home here.

About the role

The Associate Fabric R&D for Cacique is responsible for the fabric R&D and standardization of development and bulk production.  This position is required to work closely with Regional and Domestic Fabric, Sourcing and Design teams as well as suppliers.

The impact you can have

• Design/Merchant/PD/Sourcing partners to prepare seasonal collection to meet customer needs and brand targets and communicate effectively and efficiently with suppliers and ensure sample yardage is ordered to utilize for sampling.
• Manage fabric library of R&D selections and  standardized submits from seasonal developments, along with regional duplications or alternatives
• Understand brands material and garment testing requirements and manage seasonal risk assessments with brands
• Partner with PD/Sourcing/Merchandise team by providing technical expertise to help  with  costing or production flexibility/capability
• Proactively identify and suggest solutions to Merchant/Design on fabric issues

You’ll bring to the role

• Bachelor's Degree in Textiles  (or related area) or equivalent work experience
• 3+  years of Fabric R&D and technical experience in the apparel trade
• Experience with intimate apparel, swim apparel, and/or athletic apparel preferred
• Passion for innovation, creative thinking and sustainability
• Ability to provide seasonal trend analysis 
• Experience working directly with international fabric mills and regional offices or agencies
• Proficient in Microsoft Applications, Google Docs & Flex PLM
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills
• Proven ability to work independently as well as a member of a team
• Experience working with a US based organization preferred

Benefits

• You will be eligible to receive a merchandise discount at select KnitWell Group brands, subject to each brand’s discount policies.
• Support for your individual development plus opportunities for career mobility within our family of brands.  
• A culture of giving back – local volunteer opportunities, annual donation and volunteer match to eligible nonprofit organizations, and philanthropic activities to support our communities. *  
• Medical, dental, vision insurance & 401(K)* 
• Employee Assistance Program (EAP)
• Time off – paid time off & holidays*
• Hybrid:  This position works in a hybrid model, with required days worked in the Lane Bryant office location in Columbus, OH  as defined by business needs.

*Any job offer will consider factors such your qualifications, relevant experience, and skills. Eligibility of certain benefits and associate programs are subject to employment type and role.

Position Type:

Regular/Full time

Equal Employment Opportunity
The Company is an equal opportunity employer and welcomes applications from diverse candidates. Hiring decisions are based upon a candidate's qualifications as they relate to the requirements of the position under consideration and are made without regard to sex (including pregnancy), race, color, national origin, religion, age, disability, genetic information, military status, sexual orientation, gender identity, or any other category protected by applicable law.