COMPANY DESCRIPTION
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 |