Deadline: asap |
Full time contract |
5+ year experience in raw materials development |
Yes, worth doing! (8/10) - Because this is the perfect example of “all jobs should be green jobs”. You source and develop raw materials, in consideration of sustainability, equally counted with cost and quality aspects. |
VF is redefining what it means to be the world’s best apparel, footwear and equipment company, powering iconic active lifestyle brands including The North Face®, Vans® and Timberland®.
The Senior Material Developer, Materials Library is responsible for the hands-on development, evaluation, and lifecycle management of fabric materials within VF’s centralized materials library. Reporting to the Senior Manager / Manager, this role plays a key part in executing the material strategy across apparel brands, ensuring alignment with sustainability, innovation, and cost objectives. The Senior Developer will collaborate closely with sourcing, product development, and digital teams to maintain a high-performing, future-ready material library.
Key responsibilities
Material Development & Evaluation
Develop and evaluate fabric materials for inclusion in the materials library, ensuring alignment with performance, aesthetic, sustainability, and cost targets.
Conduct technical assessments of fabric quality, construction, and finishing processes.
Collaborate with suppliers and mills to source, test, and refine materials for seasonal and core programs.
Library Lifecycle Management
Support the circulation, inventory, and lifecycle planning of materials across global library locations.
Maintain accurate records of material attributes, certifications, and usage data.
Participate in seasonal and lifecycle reviews to assess material relevance, usage, and optimization opportunities.
Data & Digital Systems
Ensure accurate and complete metadata entry for all materials in PLM and digital library systems.
Support the digitization of material workflows and contribute to the continuous improvement of digital tools.
Collaborate with IT and digital innovation teams to enhance the material database and user experience.
Cross-Functional Collaboration
Partner with brand teams, sourcing, and materials development leaders to align on material needs and priorities.
Act as a subject matter expert for fabric performance, innovation, and sustainability.
Provide technical support and insights to internal stakeholders during material selection and development phases.
Profile
Technical Expertise
Strong knowledge of fabric types, construction, finishing, and performance characteristics.
Experience in fabric development, testing, and supplier collaboration.
Familiarity with sustainability standards and innovative textile technologies.
Analytical & Operational Skills
Detail-oriented with strong organizational and documentation skills.
Ability to manage multiple projects and timelines in a fast-paced environment.
Proficiency in PLM systems and digital material libraries.
Collaboration & Communication
Strong interpersonal skills with the ability to work cross-functionally and globally.
Clear communicator who can translate technical fabric knowledge into actionable insights.
Team-oriented mindset with a proactive approach to problem-solving.