The Fabric Development Associate will utilize their exceptional organizational skills to support the fabric research and development process. This is a full-time role for a candidate who can ensure best in class research, communicate effectively, has strong organization skills and thrives in a fast-paced work environment. 

About IHL: IHL Group is a New York City-Based, trend-driven company specializing in Women and Children’s apparel.

IHL Group was established in 2007. Since it opened its doors, IHL Group has securely positioned itself as a recognized manufacturer and wholesaler with its North American and global presence across all major channels.

Responsibilities:

• Develop fabric design direction and execution by providing innovative and relevant research and development: targeted and sophisticated research, with sensitivity to the materials, the contemporary and missy market, and with an awareness of current trends and competition.
• Collaborate with design and production teams to present and develop fabrics as part of seasonal concepts.
• Provide best in class research through imagery, competitive shopping, vintage procurement for style and fabric inspiration, for seasonal collections across fashion and as well as core styles.
• Shop all appropriate trade shows, review mill, vendor and supplier developments and make selections utilizing appropriate brand filters and costing guardrails.
• Partner with design, production and sales teams to achieve objectives as related to cost, delivery and quality.
• Recommend preferred mill relationships, capabilities and pricing.
• Develop an integrated fabric development process within category which includes development of a digital and physical fabric library.
• Be Inquisitive and innovative: Use initiative when liaising with other teams to bring forward ideas. Lead the creative development, research and idea pool.
• Monitor and track all fabric development status by season, including status of counter submits, until complete and approved by Design.
• Supports the T&A process and calendar in partnership with cross functional team members (CFTs).
• Own all counter sourcing fabrics with input from Production, identifying opportunities for competitive sourcing.

• Daily communication with overseas mills and to ensure development timelines are met and issues are resolved quickly.

Qualifications:

• Experience in Off-price and/or Mass market required
• College Degree in Fashion/Textiles or similar field preferred
• At least 3 years of experience in Fabric R&D strongly preferred
• Technical knowledge of fabric, construction, and product engineering
• Knowledge of factory operations as they relate to costing and manufacturing limitations
• Understanding of apparel and raw material testing
• Working knowledge of tariffs and duty rates
• Understanding of supply chain logistics
• Familiar with industry standard development processes/procedures, quality standards and compliance regulations.

Job Logistics

Location: New York, NY – Midtown West

Compensation: The anticipated base salary range for this position is $40,000-$65,000. 

IHL is an equal opportunity employer that is committed to diversity and inclusion in the workplace. We prohibit discrimination and harassment of any kind based on race, color, sex, religion, sexual orientation, national origin, disability, genetic information, pregnancy, or any other protected characteristic as outlined by federal, state, or local laws.