About the role

The Director, Fabric Research & Development is a strategic leader responsible for developing and executing the fabric, raw materials, innovation, and sustainability strategy for the brand. This role partners closely with Design, Merchandising, Product Development, Sourcing, Production, and Quality teams to drive fabric innovation, elevate product quality, and ensure alignment with brand aesthetic, sourcing strategies, and financial objectives.

The impact you can have

• Develop and execute the global fabric and raw materials strategy aligned with brand, product, sourcing, and sustainability goals.
• Lead seasonal and long-range fabric development from concept through production readiness.
• Identify trends and advance innovative fibers, yarns, finishes, washes, prints, and constructions.
• Partner with Design, Merchandising, Product Development, Sourcing, Production, and Quality to deliver commercially viable fabrics.
• Ensure fabrics meet aesthetic, quality, performance, cost, compliance, and calendar requirements.
• Build and manage strategic global mill, supplier, and innovation partnerships.
• Drive supplier performance, cost optimization, capacity planning, and supply chain risk mitigation.
• Advance responsible sourcing, traceability, recycled materials, and other sustainability initiatives.
• Improve fabric development processes, tools, and workflows to increase efficiency and speed to market.
• Lead and develop the Fabric R&D team while fostering innovation, collaboration, accountability, and continuous learning.

You’ll bring to the role

• Bachelor's degree in Textile Science, Textile Engineering, Materials Science, Fashion, Product Development, or related field
• 10-12+ years of progressive experience in fabric research & development, raw materials, sourcing, or textile innovation within apparel, fashion, retail, or related industries.
• 3+ years of leadership experience managing teams and partnering across functions.
• Extensive expertise across woven, knit, novelty, performance, and specialty textiles.
• Deep understanding of fabric construction, fiber technologies, dyeing, printing, finishing, wash development, and garment applications.
• Proven success driving innovation and bringing new materials from concept through commercialization.
• Strong understanding of global sourcing strategies, mill capabilities, manufacturing processes, and supply chain operations.
• Demonstrated experience managing strategic supplier and mill partnerships globally.
• Strong business acumen with experience managing budgets, margins, cost targets, and financial objectives.

Benefits

• You will be eligible to receive a merchandise discount at select KnitWell Group brands, subject to each brand’s discount policies.
• Support for your individual development plus opportunities for career mobility within our family of brands.  
• A culture of giving back – local volunteer opportunities, annual donation and volunteer match to eligible nonprofit organizations, and philanthropic activities to support our communities. *  
• Medical, dental, vision insurance & 401(K)* 
• Employee Assistance Program (EAP)
• Time off – paid time off & holidays*
• The target salary range for this role is: $150,000 - $165,000*
• Hybrid:  This position works in a hybrid model, with required days worked in the Ann Taylor office location in New York, NY as defined by business needs.

 

 

*Any job offer will consider factors such your qualifications, relevant experience, and skills. Eligibility of certain benefits and associate programs are subject to employment type and role.

 

Location:

Times Square Tower-ANN-New York, NY 10036Position Type:Regular/Full time