Materials Sourcing Specialist

Material ConneXion is the leading material science authority. We define the “what’s new and what’s next” in materials and incubate new ideas so our clients can make smarter design decisions. Our international team of material scientists creates original, globally relevant content and decodes industry trends and material advancements to provide an authoritative view on the innovations that will future-proof our clients’ businesses.

Our team brings over 20 years of experience advising Fortune 500 brands across industries from apparel to aeronautics. We bring together deep material knowledge with a human-centered and solutions-driven approach. We believe the most elegant material solutions achieve business and performance goals while elevating customer experience and driving sustainability. We believe that Every Idea Has a Material Solution.

Material ConneXion interfaces heavily with material manufacturers around the world. We maintain a physical and digital Database of material technologies, and we shortlist material solutions for our brand projects. The Database is the foundation of our business, and we continually connect with new manufacturers and technologies. The Database is over 20 years old and has evolved over time to accommodate the needs of our clients. As we continue to expand, we have introduced new tools, features, and potential services to improve the Database and to assist our clients with the early product development process. Regularly connecting with our partner manufacturers allows us to provide our clients with the most up to date information, to recommend the most appropriate solutions to problems, and to stay aware of what is to come.

Material ConneXion is seeking a personable and thorough sourcing specialist who will help us maintain manufacturer relationships, update our Database, and deliver solutions to our clients. In this role, they will be responsible for facilitating our ongoing relationship with our partner manufacturers, updating material information, and sampling technologies. The ideal candidate is vibrant, focused, and organized. They can effectively initiate, nurture, and follow-up with multiple manufacturers across a variety of material categories. They can problem solve, balance logistics, and report notable updates and trends to the MCX team. This is a full-time position.

We are seeking a candidate for our New York location with at least 2 days a week in office, who is inquisitive, adaptable, and has a willingness to dive into the details. This role presents a unique opportunity to influence the core of Material ConneXion, while also fostering lasting partnerships within the constantly evolving materials landscape.

What you''ll do:

• Regularly update material details, sample images, and contact details on the Database in support of Research and Operations
• Source updated samples of existing MCX technologies as well as new releases from existing MCX manufacturers
• Coordinate project specific sampling on behalf of Research team and clients
• Prepare technology presentations and spreadsheets based on material recommendations from EVP
• Regularly report updates from manufacturers to Research & Operations
• Assist manufacturers with access to the Database backend
• Communicate MCX updates to manufacturers
• Collaborate with IT and Operations to identify and to troubleshoot the Database
• Support Research, Operations, IT, and Sales in other core administrative functions

What you'll bring:

• Background in materials science, sourcing, merchandising, purchasing, textile/product design, or related fields to at least a bachelors degree level.
• At least 2 years experience working in a related field.
• Proficiency in Excel and PowerPoint.
• Excellent communication and presentation skills with the ability to represent the brand effectively.
• Strong organizational and time management skills.
• Attentive to detail and accuracy.
• Highly driven and proactive with the ability to take initiative.

What you’ll get from us:

• Our people: If you thrive in an inclusive, innovative, and fast-paced organization, look no further! You will get to work alongside some of the brightest minds - Join a genuinely fun and supportive workplace where we keep our employees consistently engaged through internal communication and corporate events 
• Relaxation and Celebrations: Generous PTO, Sick Days, Paid National Holidays, and even more (ask us about this when we connect). 
• Health Benefits: We contribute to your medical, dental, vision and short-term/long-term disability plans and have a strong employee assistance program. 
• Plan for your Retirement: 401(k) eligible after your first 90 day's employed!
• Giving Back: We sponsor multiple events throughout the year to help out our communities. You will receive time off to give back as well. 
• Growth: We’ll help you take your career to the next level. We want you to be creative and take initiative which will allow you to grow and create within the company. Most importantly, be the best at what matters! 
• Flexible Work Schedules: With business units and employees across the globe, Material Technologies has embraced a hybrid  working model allowing department leaders to decide on the best approach for their respective teams, whether that be remote, in person, or a little of both.