Materials Development Manager

A leading technical apparel and outdoor products company is seeking a Materials Development Manager to lead the strategy, direction, and execution of materials development across multiple performance-driven product lines. This role will guide the evolution of the materials function, delivering high-performance and innovative solutions aligned with brand, product, and business objectives.

The position combines deep technical materials expertise with team leadership, including setting priorities, developing team capabilities, and driving cross-functional alignment. The Materials Development Manager will partner closely with internal teams and external suppliers to support long-term innovation, product performance, and scalability.

This is a compelling opportunity to shape material strategy and influence product innovation across highly regarded technical apparel brands.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead a small materials team while defining and driving the material development strategy aligned to brand vision, product roadmaps, and business goals.

• Manage and develop the materials team through hiring, coaching, performance management, and capability building.

• Establish priorities and manage workloads across seasonal calendars to ensure timely execution and delivery.

• Oversee the development and implementation of new materials, ensuring performance, durability, quality, and cost objectives are achieved.

• Own and advance the material innovation pipeline by identifying new technologies, materials, and supplier capabilities.

• Build and manage strategic supplier relationships, including mills and development partners, to support innovation and scalability.

• Collaborate cross-functionally with Design, Product Development, Sourcing, and Operations to align material direction and product integration.

• Oversee material testing standards and validation processes to ensure consistency, compliance, and performance expectations.

• Drive continuous improvement of material development processes to enhance efficiency, quality, and speed to market.

• Establish and monitor key performance indicators, using data to inform decisions and improve outcomes.

• Identify and mitigate risks related to materials, suppliers, and development timelines.

• Oversee material library strategy and infrastructure to support current development and future innovation.

Desired Competencies

Leadership: Ability to inspire, guide, and empower others by setting clear direction, fostering trust, and creating an environment where team members feel supported, motivated, and accountable.

Collaboration: Ability to work effectively across functions and levels, contributing to shared goals while respecting different perspectives.

Technical / Functional Expertise: Strong technical and professional knowledge within materials development, with the ability to stay current on innovation, performance standards, and industry trends.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree required; degrees in Textile Development, Materials Engineering, or a related field preferred.

• 7+ years of experience in materials or textile development for technical products.

• Experience in technical outerwear required; experience with powersports, snow, moto, or related performance apparel preferred.

• Expertise in waterproof/breathable fabrics, insulation technology, and protective textiles.

• Strong experience managing global supplier networks and strategic mill partnerships.

• Proven ability to set direction, prioritize work, and manage multiple initiatives across seasonal timelines.

• Strong leadership, communication, and cross-functional influence skills.

• Advanced analytical, problem-solving, and decision-making capabilities.

• Deep understanding of apparel manufacturing processes, costing, and material application.

• Ability to travel domestically and internationally up to 10%.

• This position is not eligible for sponsorship.

• Role is based on-site in the Mountain West region with a hybrid work environment.