Temporary Development / Materials Manager

Who we are 

 Founded in 2009 by sisters Kendall and Libby Glazer, Stoney Clover Lane makes customizable accessories for travel and every day. We make the organization interesting. Our goal is to become your #1 accessory brand and the best way to surprise and delight friends and family as your go-to gift purchase. At Stoney Clover Lane, creating a memorable guest experience is our North Star. No detail and no occasion is too small. You can find Stoney Clover Lane online, at select retailers and in our storefront locations.

Job Title: Temporary Development / Materials Manager
Industry: Fashion Accessories (Handbags Preferred)
Employment Type: Temporary / Contract

Position Overview

We are seeking a highly organized and detail-oriented Temporary Development / Materials Manager to support our product lifecycle from concept through pre-production. This role is critical in driving development execution, ensuring material and product standards are met, and maintaining strong communication across design, production, and vendor partners. The ideal candidate thrives in a fast-paced environment, demonstrates strong problem-solving skills, and has a deep understanding of materials, costing, and development processes within the fashion accessories industry.

Key Responsibilities

Materials Development & Sourcing

• Initiate and manage all print, fabric, trim, and material developments with suppliers
• Source new materials aligned with design direction, cost targets, and brand standards
• Gather and analyze material costing, minimums, and lead times to support margin goals
• Ensure all materials meet testing, compliance, and sustainability requirements where applicable
• Build and maintain strong relationships with mills and material vendors

Product Development & Vendor Management

• Partner closely with the Design Team to align on development details, expectations, and execution strategies
• Lead product development activities with factories from Tech Pack handoff through sample completion
• Issue and track all sample requests to vendors, ensuring adherence to development calendars and deadlines
• Proactively follow up with vendors on sample status, troubleshoot delays, and implement solutions to stay on track
• Maintain clear and consistent communication with all cross-functional teams regarding sample updates and risks
• Develop, review, and clearly communicate Bill of Materials (BOM) details to factories
• Partner with Design and Production to identify cost-saving opportunities without compromising quality

Quality & Compliance

• Ensure all development samples meet quality standards, including materials, trims, construction, and packaging
• Oversee lab dips, strike-offs, and material approvals in collaboration with Design
• Ensure all products comply with retailer, brand, and licensed partner requirements (testing, labeling, packaging, etc.)
• Maintain a strong understanding of regulatory compliance standards across regions

Cross-Functional Collaboration

• Collaborate with Production to communicate development history, risks, and any product-related challenges
• Support smooth transition from development to bulk production
• Work with internal teams to resolve issues related to materials, construction, or vendor execution

Calendar & Process Management

• Own and manage development timelines to ensure all milestones are met
• Communicate delays or risks proactively and recommend solutions
• Continuously improve development processes and workflows for efficiency and clarity

Documentation & Organization

• Maintain an organized library of all development submissions, approvals, and records
• Track and archive lab dips, strike-offs, material swatches, and sample history
• Ensure accurate recordkeeping for future reference and production continuity

Additional Responsibilities

• Participate in design and development meetings, offering technical and material expertise
• Monitor industry trends in materials, sustainability, and manufacturing techniques
• Support special projects, seasonal initiatives, or urgent development needs as required
• Mentor junior team members and support staff

Qualifications

• 3–5 years of experience in product development or materials management within fashion apparel or accessories (handbags strongly preferred)
• Prior management or leadership experience required
• Strong understanding of materials, construction techniques, and development workflows
• Experience working with overseas factories and global vendors
• Experience working with Leather
• Knowledge of testing, compliance, and retailer requirements
• Proven ability to manage multiple projects and deadlines simultaneously
• Strong analytical skills with a solid understanding of costing and margin structures
• Excellent communication, organizational, and problem-solving skills
• Proficiency in PLM systems, Excel, and other development tracking tools

Preferred Attributes

• Detail-oriented with a proactive, solution-driven mindset
• Ability to thrive in a fast-paced, deadline-driven environment
• Strong team player with cross-functional collaboration skills
• Passion for fashion accessories and product innovation
• Hybrid schedule in office 4 days  out of  NY office and remotley 1 day  
• Hourly rate of $60-$75 per hour