Manager Materials Development App - Athletics (m/f)

Job description

Country: Germany
Job Function: Product Development

State / Province: Germany
Position Type: Full time

City / Location: Herzogenaurach
Brand: adidas

Relocation:

Somewhere, in one of our workshops right now, the future is taking shape. We are constantly working to redefine the way clothing and footwear transforms the pitch, court or course. This is what drives us: the feeling of discovery and the urge to innovate. When we create a product that makes our hearts beat faster, we know we’re onto something.

If this sounds inspiring, you might be one of us: Someone who loves to create the present, as well as shape the future. There’s a reason adidas has been at the forefront of defining sport for more than 60 years: We never stand still. Everyday, we work to improve everything we create.

At adidas, interesting, amazing and inspiring aren’t just ideas. They are what we do every single day.

PURPOSE

You will be responsible for the availability of materials, which support the strategic marketing & design direction to enable commercial success. You will collaborate cross-functionally with different teams such as Design, Product Development, Material Sourcing, Quality and Suppliers. You will identify and develop the right materials according to calendar timelines, target prices, sourcing policy, and quality standards. With your help, our team will deliver the signature adidas quality that makes our consumers proud to wear our logo.

KEY ACCOUNTABILITIES

· Guide all cross-functional material related discussions, steer the material selection process and encourage material consolidation to improve material efficiency
· Collaborate cross-functionally and establish close relationships with the respective teams to create a focused material toolbox and educate them on how to improve material efficiencies
· Initiate and monitor all material developments, be responsible for initial material price negotiation, and ensure that all selected materials are tested and approved by Materials Quality in accordance with applicable calendar timelines
· Identify suitable sources for new material developments and guide suppliers to translate the design vision into innovative material which meet commercial needs of the brand
· Provide latest information on material trends by gathering innovative input from relevant fairs, supplier meetings, apparel material show etc.
· Encourage innovation projects and ensure their successful implementation and documentation

KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS AND ABILITIES

· Ability to anticipate problems, be solution oriented, and address issues with materials in order to meet the Design team’s aesthetic goals and financial targets
· Advanced communication and presentation skills with the ability to influence through words and actions
· Very good planning and organization skills with the ability to meet tight deadlines
· Excellent MS-Office skills

QUALIFICATIONS

· College or university degree in textile engineering or comparable degree/education in related field
· Minimum of 2-3 years’ work experience in the fabric production industry
· Fluent in English (verbal and written)