Company Description
Ralph Lauren Corporation (NYSE:RL) is a global leader in the design, marketing and distribution of premium lifestyle products in five categories: apparel, accessories, home, fragrances, and hospitality. For more than 50 years, Ralph Lauren's reputation and distinctive image have been consistently developed across an expanding number of products, brands and international markets. The Company's brand names, which include Ralph Lauren, Ralph Lauren Collection, Ralph Lauren Purple Label, Polo Ralph Lauren, Double RL, Lauren Ralph Lauren, Polo Ralph Lauren Children, Chaps, among others, constitute one of the world's most widely recognized families of consumer brands. At Ralph Lauren, we unite and inspire the communities within our company as well as those in which we serve by amplifying voices and perspectives to create a culture of belonging, ensuring inclusion, and fairness for all. We foster a culture of inclusion through: Talent, Education & Communication, Employee Groups and Celebration.
Position Overview
Lead fabric research and development across wovens, knits, and leather for Women's Collection, driving innovation from concept through to bulk production. Serve as a key partner across all stages of fabric management-providing deep expertise, market insight, and strong vendor engagement to ensure best-in-class quality, on-time delivery, and cost discipline. Leverage strategic sourcing and negotiation to elevate fabric selection while consistently upholding and enhancing the Ralph Lauren aesthetic.
Essential Duties & Responsibilities
* Evaluate design-led fabric proposals; introduce innovative and commercially viable alternatives
* Partner with Design and Merchandising to finalize fabric selection and color direction at NY headquarters
* Develop new fabric qualities directly with mills, balancing quality, cost, performance, and scalability
* Manage sample yardage orders aligned to development launches, garment quantities, and timelines
* Review and approve all sample materials for hand feel, quality, and color accuracy
* Identify fabric risks during sampling; propose and implement alternative solutions for production
* Negotiate fabric pricing and maintain strong supplier partnerships
* Drive supplier follow-ups to ensure adherence to development and production timelines
* Support vendors in resolving fabrication-related issues during production
* Participate in fittings and vendor/showroom handoffs to ensure fabric integrity in final garments
* Lead targeted fabric research and development for VIC/VIP projects, including sourcing or creating exclusive materials aligned with brand standards and client needs
Experience, Skills & Knowledge 10 years of experience in similar role in Luxury Brand Has excellent knowledge of fabrics Very good communication skills Fluent knowledge of English and Italian, spoken and written Good knowledge of windows applications Precise, organized, proactive, team player