Assistant Fabric Manager

We are seeking an experienced and proactive Assistant Fabric Manager to drive seasonal fabric sourcing and technical development, with a strong focus on woven fabrics.

Leveraging a robust supplier network across China and overseas markets, you will collaborate directly with Design leadership to interpret collection concepts, negotiate competitive FOB costs, and navigate tight seasonal timelines in a fast-paced retail environment.

Key Responsibilities

• Fabric Sourcing & Seasonal Development:

  • Source and develop innovative, commercially viable seasonal fabrics (with a primary focus on woven materials) aligned with brand identity and target cost structures.
  • Proactively advise the Product Director and Design leadership on global fabric trends, material innovations, and local retail best practices.
  • Attend trade shows and fabric fairs to discover new materials and expand global sourcing avenues.

• Vendor Management & Cost Negotiation:

  • Manage, evaluate, and expand an extensive vendor network across China and international fabric mills.
  • Lead price negotiations on fabric costs, agreement terms, and minimum order quantities (MOQs).
  • Oversee sample fabric and trim ordering, ensuring strict tracking to meet tight sample deadlines.

• Testing, Quality & Production Support:

  • Oversee initial fabric testing, lab test reports (including GB standards), and technical inspection procedures.
  • Collaborate with Production teams and garment factories to troubleshoot and resolve technical or bulk fabric issues promptly.

• Cross-Functional Collaboration:

  • Work closely with Design Managers and Chief Designers to translate creative direction into executable product specs.
  • Represent the fabric team in key product review and seasonal alignment meetings.

Requirements:

• Tertiary education in Textiles, Clothing, or a related discipline.
• Minimum 10+ years of experience in fabric sourcing and development, with at least 2 years in a supervisory role.
• Hands-on expertise in suiting and woven fabrics is required.
• Active, established supplier network across both China and overseas markets.
• In-depth knowledge of fibers, weaving, dyeing, finishing, inspection procedures, and textile testing methods (including GB standards).
• Strong fashion market sense and solid experience collaborating directly with fashion designers.
• Fast-paced and resilient—thrives under high pressure, able to multi-task and meet demanding, tight deadlines.
• Strong negotiation, time management, and team/vendor management skills.
• Good command of spoken and written English and Chinese (Cantonese and Putonghua).
• Proficient in MS Office (Excel, Word, PowerPoint).