Textile Product & Technical Manager

DEPARTMENT: Operations
REPORTS TO: VP/GM

OVERALL PURPOSE: WHY THE JOB EXISTS & WHAT YOU WILL DO

As Textile Product and Technical Manager, you will oversee the entire lifecycle of product lines, including market analysis, product development and launch, and all appropriate technical and support documentation. You will collaborate with Sales, Marketing, and Sourcing teams to ensure that products meet industry-established quality specifications and customer needs, and help identify those suppliers who can fulfill those needs. You will also be the company expert in textile types, manufacturing processes, and finishing techniques.

ESSENTIAL JOB FUNCTIONS & EXPECTED OUTCOMES: YOUR ACCOUNTABILITIES IN THE ROLE

• Product Strategy and Roadmap:
  • Define and refine product vision, strategy, and roadmap for textile products, aligning with the company’s overall goals.
  • Conduct market research and competitor analysis to identify opportunities and trends.
• Product Development:
  • Manage the product development process, from ideation to launch, ensuring timely and cost-effective execution.
  • Collaborate with designers, engineers, and other stakeholders to translate product requirements into technical specifications.
• Technical Expertise:
  • Maintain in-depth knowledge of textile manufacturing processes, including weaving, knitting, dyeing, and finishing techniques.
  • Stay updated on emerging textile technologies and industry trends to identify potential innovations and quality enhancements.
  • Analyze fabric composition and construction to assess suitability for intended applications.
  • Attend conferences and exhibitions to build contacts.
  • Work closely with the operations team, sales department, contractors, and suppliers to address quality concerns.
  • Visit factories to monitor production.

• Collaboration and Communication:
  • Provide technical support to internal and external customers regarding textile quality standards and product specifications.
  • Communicate product plans, updates, and issues effectively to all stakeholders.
  • Build and maintain strong relationships with suppliers and partners.
• Market Research and Analysis:
  • Develop and execute go-to-market strategies for new textile products.
  • Monitor product performance and gather customer feedback to identify areas for improvement.
  • Analyze product performance metrics and use data to refine future product strategies.
• Marketing and Promotion:
  • Work with sales and marketing teams to develop marketing plans and promotional strategies to effectively communicate the value proposition of textile products to target customers.
  • Participate in cross-functional teams to develop and execute product launch plans.

The job criteria may include other duties, responsibilities, and activities, which may change or be assigned at any time with or without notice.

REQUIREMENTS

• Education Minimum: Bachelor’s degree with a concentration in Textile Engineering, Material Science, or a related field.
• Experience: 3-5 years of experience in product management within the textile or apparel industry preferred. Strong understanding of the textile industry, including fabric types, textile manufacturing processes, and quality control methodologies.
• Functional Skills: Excellent communication and interpersonal skills. Keen attention to detail and interest in problem-solving.
• Listening skills: Must be attentive and be able to relay key messaging content.
• Technology Aptitude/Skills: Solid computer skills, strong capabilities operating within Windows Office 365 (Excel, PowerPoint, Word, etc.).
• Communication Skills: Ability to compose and communicate in a professional, succinct manner in both written and spoken deliveries. Presentation and persuasive skills. Ability to present ideas and concepts, internally and externally.
• Leadership/Behaviors: Strong work ethic and values, focused on customer quality, and accuracy with the flexibility to shift among priorities. Ability to motivate others.

EQUIPMENT USED

• Frequently uses office equipment, printers, copiers, computers, etc.

PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS TO PERFORM ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS

• Ability to stand for up to 2+ hours or more in one session.
• Ability to use hands and fingers to grasp, twist, and work with the office equipment and other tools/equipment in a safe and precise way for 7+ hours per day.
• Ability to lift up to 25 lbs. occasionally, using safe lifting practices.
• Ability to visually read fine or small print, computer screens, and hand-held equipment frequently.
• Ability to visually perceive color and distinguish between similar colors.
• Cognitive and reasoning ability to review procedures, compare products and specifications, and follow guidelines frequently.
• Ability to listen to customers/others, problem-solve, and respond accordingly throughout the day.
• Ability to respond and be flexible to changing work demands as needed.

ENVIRONMENTAL CONDITIONS

• The employee is primarily exposed to an office environment but may occasionally be exposed to an environment with moderate to loud noise.
• The employee is occasionally required to wear suitable Personal Protective Equipment.
• The temperature of the facility may fluctuate.

TRAVEL

• Minimal travel required to attend trade shows or other functions.

EEO/ADA