OBJECTIVE
Be the R&D expert in the designated region, by working seamlessly with EU GSM- fabrics and commercial MM team to deliver fabric sourcing and development. R&D manager is in sync with current trend and C&A’s overarching fabric theme to deliver cohesive selection that is relevant to current season. R&D Specialist is to support procuring up to the minute fabric collection that’s feasible in production and providing internal and external partners with the local market intelligence, value and speed.
1. Research and develop fabric trend via fashion show publication, trade shows, mill /vendor research, shopping the local market to identify must have fabric collection on seasonal bases.
2. Collaborate with internal partners by filtering macro fabric trend in time for fabric seasonal kick off and offer extended collection for design camp.
3. Be a visionary with technical know- how to capture fabric trend in the assigned fabric category (fiber- yarn, fabric techniques- finishes and wash) clean off to the commercial team.
4. Engage in the PD&D /Buying’s seasonal collaboration trip meetings providing local developments and fabric sourcing as needs.
5. Liaise with commercial team and cost engineer fabrication to meet overall OMU.
6. Complete knowledge of who’s developing what within key resources.
7. Establish relationship with design assist vendors and vertical supply base be the fabric development liaise for PD&D.
8. Identify and support researching technology.
9. Research fabric ideas triggered from HQ in preparation for next season.
10. Support departmental goal to maximize mill’s fabric potential, speed to market initiatives.
11. Maintain fabric library- organizing core, new texture, finish and wash accessible for cross functional team and visitors.

REQUIRED KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS AND ABILITIES
General:
1. Strong in trend analysis and translating to fabric concept
2. Passionate about R&D
3. Strong technical and commercial understanding of fabric process
4. Strong leadership and communication
5. A result oriented mind set
6. Reliable, resilient
7. Excellent negotiator
8. Strategic thinker
9. Organizational skill a must
Language:
1. Fluent in English
IT:
1. Excellent MS-Office-Skills (Excel, Word, Power Point)
2. PLM

REQUIRED LEADERSHIP ATTRIBUTES
1. Get to the heart of the issue
2. Decide and act through the customer's eyes
3. Focus and stay the course
4. Work as a team, break down the silos
5. Set a clear direction and expectations
6. Inspiring and confident

REQUISITE EDUCATION AND EXPERIENCE
1. Relevant graduated university degree (Bachelor) in Textile engineering or Technology.
2. Minimum of 5-10 year working experience in the Woven or Knit Fabric Sourcing area with a large retailer.