Position

Global Sourcing & Innovation Manager

Company

The company is mainly engaged in the design, development and production of knitted and woven garments such as activewear, yoga wear, swimwear and cycling etc.

Location

Ningbo, China

Report to

Group President

Job Summary

Drive the company's fabric innovation and sourcing initiatives. Responsible for overseeing all aspects of fabric sourcing, development, and innovation to maintain our position as a leader in performance apparel. This role requires a deep understanding of fabric construction, a passion for innovation, and a commitment to sustainability.

Responsibilities

Ÿ   Fabric Sourcing and Development:

Ÿ   Lead the sourcing and development of premium and price-pointed fabrics that meet our performance, quality, and sustainability standards. This includes identifying new fabric suppliers where necessary, maintaining and nurturing current fabric supplier relationships, negotiating pricing and terms, and managing the fabric development process from concept to commercialization. Ensure that sourcing activities contribute to the company’s profitability and growth.

Ÿ   Global Sourcing Process:

Ÿ   Manage the global sourcing process, including product planning, vendor/item approval, pricing, and vendor relations. Ensure the process is cost-effective and provides sustainable procurement. Ensure compliance with global sourcing standards and regulations.

Ÿ   Innovation and Technology:

Ÿ   Stay current on the latest trends, technologies, and innovations in fabric, trim, construction, and related fields. Continuously explore new materials, processes, and technologies to drive innovation and differentiation in our products. Develop and implement strategies for fibre development and alternative fabrics to ensure the company stays at the forefront of industry advancements.

Ÿ   Cross-functional Collaboration:

Ÿ   Work closely with the global product development and design teams to translate creative concepts into innovative fabric solutions. Collaborate cross-functionally to ensure that fabric choices align with design vision, performance requirements, and manufacturing capabilities.

Ÿ   Collaborate with relevant internal business support functions to drive operational efficiencies and maximum value-add to the business.

Ÿ   Supplier Relationship Management:

Ÿ   Develop and execute sourcing strategies to support business growth and profitability.

Ÿ   Identify new business opportunities and potential suppliers to enhance the company’s market position. Build and maintain strong relationships with fabric suppliers, mills, and partners worldwide. Leverage these relationships to negotiate favourable pricing, terms, and lead times while meeting quality and compliance standards. Conduct regular performance reviews and audits of suppliers to ensure compliance with quality and sustainability standards. Maintain accurate and up-to-date supplier master data.

Ÿ   Economies of Scale:

Ÿ   Oversee the global sourcing process to ensure cost-effective and sustainable procurement.

Ÿ   Identify opportunities to consolidate fabric sourcing and leverage economies of scale to achieve cost savings and improve pricing competitiveness without compromising quality or performance.

Ÿ   Sustainability and Eco-innovation:

Ÿ   Lead our efforts to integrate recycled materials and eco-innovative materials into our product offerings. Stay informed about developments in sustainable materials and drive initiatives to incorporate them into our supply chain and product portfolio.

Ÿ   Passion for the Job:

Ÿ   Demonstrate a strong passion for the garment industry, eco-innovation, and wearable technology. Stay updated on industry trends and advancements in sustainable and smart textiles. Inspire and motivate the team to achieve sourcing excellence and drive continuous improvement.

Ÿ   Visit customers in the USA, Australia, and Europe to identify ways to add value to the customer by finding innovative or more competitively priced alternative fabrics for the same quality. Visit global Fabric and trim shows.

Requirements

Ÿ   Bachelor's degree in Fabric Technology, Textiles, Industrial Engineering, Supply Chain Management or related field. Advanced degree preferred.

Ÿ   Minimum of 6 years of experience in fabric sourcing, development, and innovation within the apparel industry.

Ÿ   Experience in and deep understanding of fabric construction, performance attributes, and manufacturing processes.

Ÿ   Good written and spoken command of English and Mandarin

Ÿ   Proven track record of driving fabric innovation and implementing sustainable materials initiatives.

Ÿ   An excellent relationship builder who is comfortable working with different cultures and countries.

Ÿ   Demonstrated experience implementing a product development or sourcing system across multiple countries and multiple functions. 

Ÿ   Strong negotiation skills and ability to manage supplier relationships effectively.

Ÿ   Good knowledge in leveraging information technology to accelerate business and process re-engineering.

Ÿ   Excellent project management and cross-functional collaboration skills.

Ÿ   Passion for innovation, sustainability, and continuous improvement.

Ÿ   Ability to thrive in a fast-paced, dynamic environment and adapt to changing priorities.

Ÿ   Proficiency in Mandarin and English.