Fashion Sourcing Director required for a premium start-up fashion label. Here's an overview of key responsibilities and the skill set required for this role: Responsibilities: Vendor Management: Identify, evaluate, and collaborate with suppliers and manufacturers that can provide premium materials and workmanship. Build and maintain strong relationships with fabric mills, textile suppliers, and garment manufacturers globally. Negotiate contracts to ensure competitive pricing while maintaining quality standards. Material Sourcing: Research and source innovative, sustainable, and high-quality fabrics, trims, and accessories that align with the brand's design direction. Stay updated on market trends, material innovations, and sustainability practices. Ensure that materials sourced meet the premium label's requirements for texture, durability, and aesthetic quality. Product Development Collaboration: Work closely with designers, product developers, and production teams to bring concepts to life while ensuring the feasibility of sourcing. Provide insights on material performance, cost, and availability to influence the design process. Oversee sample production and manage timelines to meet seasonal collection deadlines. Quality Control: Ensure that all sourced materials and finished products meet the brand’s high standards for quality and craftsmanship. Develop and implement quality control processes in collaboration with manufacturers. Sustainability & Ethical Sourcing: Integrate sustainable and ethical sourcing practices into the supply chain, ensuring compliance with environmental and labor standards. Lead initiatives that reduce the environmental impact of materials and production processes. Cost Management: Manage sourcing budgets effectively, balancing cost control with the need for premium quality. Track and forecast material costs, and adjust sourcing strategies to meet financial targets. Supply Chain Optimization: Ensure timely delivery of materials and finished goods to meet production schedules. Solve supply chain issues and mitigate risks, such as material shortages or logistical delays. Key Skills: Strong Industry Knowledge: In-depth understanding of textiles, fabrics, trims, and garment production, especially in the luxury segment. Negotiation Skills: Proven ability to negotiate pricing and terms with vendors to secure high-quality materials within budget. Attention to Detail: Ensures that every element, from fabric to trim, meets the brand’s premium standards. Trend Awareness: Keeps up with emerging fashion trends, sustainable materials, and technological advancements in the textile industry. Project Management: Manages timelines, budgets, and vendor relationships efficiently, ensuring deadlines are met without compromising quality. Global Sourcing Experience: Experience working with international suppliers, especially those known for craftsmanship in luxury fabrics (e.g., Italy, France, Japan). Sustainability Focus: Knowledge of sustainable and ethical sourcing practices, vital in today’s fashion industry. This role is central to ensuring that the brand maintains its premium positioning through careful material selection, cost management, and adherence to luxury standards.
