Manager, Fabric R&D

About Us

Ann Taylor embodies and celebrates the spirit, heritage, and confidence of American women leading the lives they love. Since its beginnings, Ann Taylor has been committed to providing women with everything they need to feel inspired and motivated as they navigate their multifaceted lives. Our effortlessly polished styles are thoughtfully designed to go anywhere—from the office to special occasions (and everywhere in between).

Discover a culture centered on empowering employees, with access to industry leaders and tools you need to expand your skills and stretch your abilities. We'll meet you at every milestone with opportunities and benefits to make life better in and outside of work (not to mention your closet). Ready to join us?

About The Role

This position is primarily responsible for driving the research, gathering, and development of fabric and/or trim for their product category. Partners with cross-functional teams and external vendor/mill partners in the development of high-quality, brand-right fabrics. Collaborates with cross functional teams in establishing, refining, and implementing Fabric R&D processes into the broader design and development process, both internally and externally.

The impact you can have

• Work with Director, Fabric R&D on researching, developing, and sourcing fabrics that are trend, customer and brand right, while maintaining pricing structure
• Ensure fabric development is brand appropriate, trend right, and of elevated quality so as to elevate the aesthetic and inherent value of the product and the brand
• Research and stay abreast of fabric and/or trim trends and technological developments as they relate to the client
• Develop and maintain a fabric sourcing library
• Forge and maintain relationships with mills
• Work directly with design to gather and develop fabrics and drive fabric development T&A
• Consistently partner with design, merchandising, product development, production and vendors on fabric development related issues for immediate needs and future development
• Define, drive and execute a seasonal fabric strategy
• Maintain, update, and analyze fabric projects ensuring fiscal and quality goals
• Mentor, coach and counsel direct reports on performance expectations
• Provide a positive, challenging work environment
• Recognize and reward talent and accomplishments
• Interface effectively with all levels throughout the organization

You’ll bring to the role

• Bachelor’s Degree, or equivalent experience
• 5-7 years in the textile industry, with expertise in fabric development both domestically and internationally
• In depth fabric knowledge and experience in relation to weaving, printing, dyeing, finishing, treatments and washing techniques as well as mill capabilities
• Knowledge and understanding of merchandising and product development
• Strong design aesthetic
• Ability to drive processes with cross functional team members
• Ability to communicate clearly, both written and verbal
• Ability to handle multiple tasks with shifting priorities
• High level of attention to detail and strong organizational skills
• Strong interpersonal and problem-solving skills
• Ability to work in a fast-paced environment
• Management experience a plus
• Microsoft Office proficiency

Benefits At KnitWell Group

• Merchandise discount at our brands: 50% off regular-priced merchandise at Ann Taylor, LOFT, & Lane Bryant (in store and online)
• Support for your individual development plus 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) retirement*
• Employee Assistance Program (EAP)
• Time off – paid time off & holidays*
• The target salary for this role is: $85,000*
• 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.

This position works in a hybrid model, with three days per week worked in the New York, NY location and two days per week worked remotely.

Location:

Times Square Tower-ANN-New York, NY 10036

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.

The Company is committed to providing reasonable accommodations for job applicants with disabilities. If you require an accommodation to perform the essential duties of the position you are seeking or to participate in the application process please contact myHRSupport@ascenaretail.com. The Company will make reasonable accommodations for otherwise qualified applicants or employees, unless such accommodations would impose an undue hardship on the operations of the Company’s business. The Company will not revoke or alter a job offer based on an applicant’s request for reasonable accommodation.