Retrofte
Overview
Join our dynamic team as a Materials Lifecycle Associate, where you will play a vital role in managing the full lifecycle of fabrics and trims across Retrofte and Seroya. Your expertise will ensure that materials are developed, tracked, approved, and delivered on time, bridging the gap between creative and technical functions. If you are detail-oriented, resourceful, and thrive in a fast-paced fashion environment, we want to hear from you!
This position is execution-focused, with ownership of tracking, communication, and data accuracy throughout the material lifecycle.
Key Responsibilities
Material Development & Tracking
Participate in new style review meetings to pinpoint raw material needs for upcoming product lines.
Issue and monitor purchase orders for fabrics and trims, ensuring prompt delivery according to development schedules.
Manage bulk material tracking and approvals, keeping accurate submissions and delivery records.
Organize and maintain all material documentation across shared drives and trackers.
Support costing accuracy by regularly updating material prices, minimum order quantities, and lead times in shared trackers.
Continuously monitor timelines and provide status updates, potential risks, and next steps to relevant teams.
Collaborate with Design and Tech Design to verify that materials meet aesthetic, fit, and performance standards.
Library Management
Oversee the material library to ensure consistency and accessibility across product categories.
Manage inventory and organization of hardware and trim libraries, ensuring accurate references and eliminating obsolete materials.
Maintain and update both physical and digital binders sorted by factory, season, and material type.
Keep organized archives of lab dips, quality submissions, and testing reports for future reference and compliance.
Cross-Functional Coordination
Facilitate communication between Design, Tech Design, and Production teams, as well as vendors.
Communicate with mills, agents, and factories to confirm deliveries, approvals, and testing documentation.
Report on raw material status and highlight timing or quality risks ahead of development and production deadlines.
Qualifications
Bachelor's degree in Fashion Production, Merchandising, Textile Science, or a related field.
2-4 years of experience in product development, raw materials, or apparel production.
Exceptional organizational skills and a keen eye for detail.
Strong written and verbal communication skills; able to collaborate effectively across functions.
Proficiency in Google Workspace and a working knowledge of Adobe Creative Suite.
Ability to thrive in a fast-paced, team-oriented atmosphere.
Experience with ERP or PLM systems is a plus; familiarity with digital material tracking tools is preferred.
Exposure to luxury or contemporary fashion environments is a plus.
Demonstrated ability to manage multiple timelines and priorities with precision and accountability.