Lead - Apparel Material Development (Performance)

On seeks a Lead for Apparel Material Development (Performance) in Zürich to drive global material strategy, sustainability, and technical innovation for high-performance apparel.

This position is tasked with executing the global performance materials strategy and advancing textile technology in alignment with the company’s vision. Reporting to the Apparel Materials Team Sr Lead, the role supports a team dedicated to developing and delivering the company’s performance and sustainability strategy for all apparel textiles and raw materials.

Responsibilities

• Define, develop, and lead the creation and strategic sourcing of technical, high-performance apparel materials.
• Establish and manage fabric availability standards, sourcing policies, and quality assurance processes.
• Lead material development workstreams within assigned projects across multiple apparel product seasons.
• Drive and report on material-specific targets in line with the company sustainability roadmap.
• Create and maintain material and trim specifications, print applications, and related documentation using PLM system.
• Manage the material lifecycle, ensuring all textiles and substrates are robustly tested for high-intensity sports applications.
• Build and maintain strategic relationships with T2 material suppliers and T1 factory teams.
• Contribute to the development and maintenance of the digital and physical apparel material library.
• Collaborate cross-functionally with internal teams across global regions to ensure seamless alignment.
• Mentor junior specialists depending on project scope.

Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree (minimum) in Textile Engineering, Textile Technology, Apparel Science, or a related field.
• 8+ years of experience in performance apparel material/fabric development.
• Proven track record in technical textiles, innovative synthetics, or sports apparel execution.
• Extensive collaboration with Asia-based suppliers and factories.
• Extensive global travel experience to T2 material mills/suppliers and T1 garment factories.
• Proven experience managing cross-functional material development projects from initial concept to commercial production.
• Strong knowledge of performance fabric, garment construction methods, and industry manufacturing processes.

Nice to have

• Master’s degree or equivalent experience preferred.

About the company

The team conducts cutting-edge research to advance more sustainable materials, products, and manufacturing processes. The team works closely with cross-functional partners to embed material sustainability and high-performance priorities into the core of garment creation. The team has a strong focus on effective communication and knowledge sharing.

• Conducts cutting-edge research to advance more sustainable materials, products, and manufacturing processes.
• Works closely with cross-functional partners to embed material sustainability and high-performance priorities into the core of garment creation.
• Has a strong focus on effective communication and knowledge sharing.