We are looking for an Apparel Materials Specialist to manage the research of fabrics and trims across leather, woven, and knit categories for the Dainese Apparel collection.
Possiede le competenze e l'esperienza giuste per questo ruolo? Continui a leggere per scoprirlo e invii la sua candidatura.
This role is responsible for driving material research from concept through bulk production, partnering closely with Design, Merchandising, Product Development, and external suppliers to deliver best-in-class technical performance, aesthetic excellence, quality, cost efficiency, and on-time execution.
The ideal candidate combines deep expertise in technical and performance materials with a strong product mindset, hands-on development experience, and a passion for innovation.
KEY RESPONSIBILITIES:
Research and development of fabrics and trims across leather, woven, knit, and technical performance materials
Scout and identify new materials, finishes, and components aligned with Dainese product strategy and brand DNA
Partner closely with Design and Merchandising to define material direction, fabric selection, and color development
Develop new material solutions directly with mills and suppliers, balancing performance, quality, cost, and industrial scalability
Evaluate design proposals and proactively recommend alternative materials where needed
Manage sample yardage requests in line with development milestones and collection timelines
Review and approve all development materials for hand feel, technical performance, quality standards, and color accuracy
Identify material-related risks during development and define alternative solutions to support production readiness
Support cost optimization through material selection and supplier negotiation while maintaining product integrity
Build and nurture strong partnerships with mills, trim suppliers, and strategic vendors
Ensure supplier alignment on development and production timelines
Support troubleshooting and resolution of material-related issues during production
Drive exclusive material developments to strengthen product DNA and competitive differentiation
REQUIREMENTS:
Minimum 5 years of experience in materials development, textile R&D, or fabric sourcing within apparel or performance products
Strong expertise in technical fabrics and performance materials
Solid understanding of textile construction, finishes, trims, and material testing
Proven experience working directly with mills and suppliers
Strong organizational and project management skills
Proactive, hands-on, and solution-oriented mindset
Excellent communication and cross-functional collaboration skills
Fluent in English and Italian (spoken and written)
Good knowledge of Microsoft Office / Windows applications
We believe in the strength of diversity and the value created when different perspectives come together.
Being an inclusive company isn't a goal – it's the journey we choose to take every day. Our recruitment process complies with Italian Legislative Decrees 198/2006, 215/2003, and 216/2003, guaranteeing equal opportunity to whoever wishes to join us on this journey. xpavfwm
The position is open to everyone – we welcome every identity and orientation, safeguarding and promoting the free expression of each individual.