Global Materials & Trims Developer (icebreaker)

Section: Headquarters

icebreaker is looking for an exceptional Global Materials & Trims Developer to join our team based in Stabio, Switzerland.

Driven by the belief that nature has the answers, we provide natural performance alternatives to synthetic-based apparel, to create a healthier and more sustainable future for our species and the planet. We're passionate about connecting people to natural alternatives.

Let’s Talk about the Role

As Global Materials & Trims Developer for icebreaker you will support the development process for materials and trims with a focus on executional excellence in trims and a broad understanding of performance materials and natural fibres. You will ensure technical accuracy, timely execution, and alignment with brand strategy, sustainability principles, and sourcing capabilities.

This role plays a crucial part in enabling the Material Development strategy by collaborating cross-functionally to execute developments and process data with precision and purpose.

A key member of the product creation team, you will support and enable the Global Materials & Trims Manager’s vision by ensuring accurate documentation, effective supplier communication, and adherence to the GTM timelines for seasonal developments.

How You Will Make a Difference

• Materials & Trims Execution: Support the Global Materials & Trims Manager in the successful development and delivery of seasonal trims and materials. Maintain technical documentation, request and track sample submissions, and ensure data accuracy in PLM. Your work will support icebreaker’s strategic and commercial objectives by ensuring all materials and trims meet brand, quality and sustainability standards within the parameters of the brief.

• End-to-End Product Excellence: Assist the Global Product Team by preparing comprehensive seasonal materials & trims handover documents that outline the specifications, composition, construction, costing, performance and quality data of new developments. Proactively seek process and manufacturing improvement initiatives with an emphasis on quality and finish to ensure the materials and trims are continually upgraded, enhanced and the best they can be.

• Cross-Functional Collaboration: Liaise between internal departments (Innovation, Design, Product Development, Merchandising, Supply Planning) and external stakeholders (GSM, ASO, Suppliers & Quality Control). Establish strong working relationships, facilitate transparent communication and collaboration to ensure alignment on product strategies, timelines, and quality benchmarks.

• Data & Process Management: Maintain and regularly update the Product Lifecycle Management (PLM) system with the latest materials and trims data according to the required seasonal inputs/outputs; (technical specifications, lead times, revisions, costings). This rigorous database management ensures seamless communication across the Product Creation and Manufacturing teams. Follow critical paths to coordinate the receipt, tracking and organization of development and approval samples for internal evaluation.

• Testing & Certification: Collaborate with the Global Materials & Trims Manager on test planning and execution (lab and wear tests), collect and organize results and certificates, and help cascade relevant documentation across functions to support compliance, sustainability and quality standards.

• Continuous Improvement & Feedback: Analyse market feedback and product performance data to refine existing materials and trims. Influence future development efforts towards process and performance improvements. Actively seek opportunities for personal growth, with a focus on developing knowledge & expertise in materials & trims development.

Skills for Success

• Vision: A curiosity for innovative, natural performance material and trim technologies related to outdoor performance apparel. A keen eye for details in the creation of materials and trims which align with brand strategy and contribute to product excellence and functionality.

• Values: A passion and commitment to sustainability, ethical sourcing and high-quality performance in all aspects of material and trim development. Meticulous attention to detail and strong organizational skills are essential.

• Expertise: Understanding of trim and fabric development processes, performance characteristics of natural fibres, and testing standards. Experience with PLM systems and sample tracking workflows is highly valued.

• Collaboration: Demonstrated ability to work effectively in a team, to embrace collaborative relationships across diverse organisations and external partners, ensuring seamless execution and integration of material and trim developments into the product creation process.

• Communication: Clear, professional communicator confident in coordinating with global stakeholders and keeping timelines and expectations aligned. Strong written documentation and reporting skills.

• Agility: Able to organise and prioritise workload across multi-phase product development projects with an understanding of critical path and process management. Flexibility to work in an international context across regions and associated time zones, at times requiring meeting attendance early mornings or evenings.

• Professionalism: Exceptional time management and good interpersonal skills with an emphasis on embracing an inclusive culture of excellence and respect within the team and across all stakeholder relationships. Deals with conflict and challenges with an objective and calm approach.
   

Education & Experience

A University Bachelor or Master’s degree in Materials Science, Textiles, Product Engineering or equivalent combination of education and experience a related field is required. Certifications or training in sustainability, or materials testing are a plus.

Good level of computer literacy is essential; proficient in Microsoft Office with a good understanding of PLM (Flex, Enovia) solutions.

3-5 years of experience in materials and trims development, procurement, and testing within the apparel, outdoor performance, or related industries.

What’s in it For You

We’re in the business of unleashing human potential, driven by the ideas, energy and commitment of our people. That’s why we offer comprehensive benefits that encourage mental, physical and financial well-being for all VF associates. When it comes to benefits, we’re the total package.

• A supportive feedback-based culture where respect and integrity guide us in what we do

• An inclusive international environment where people of diverse backgrounds, lifestyles and nationalities love working together

• Be part of an iconic lifestyle brand in a multi brand, multi countries organization

• On site gym offering health and well-being initiatives

• A discount card with 50% on all VF brands

• Break out areas offering complimentary hot drinks

About VF

VF is a global apparel company connecting people to the lifestyles they cherish through our family of iconic brands. At the heart of our journey lies our purpose: We power movements of sustainable and active lifestyles for the betterment of people and our planet. This is our purpose. It’s the reason we come to work every day. Our purpose unites us and leads us to pursue our goals, together. This is our calling. Learn more at vfc.com

Free to Be, Inclusion & Diversity 

As an equal opportunity employer, we strive to foster a culture of belonging based on respect, connection, openness and authenticity. We are committed to building and maintaining a workplace that celebrates the diversity of our associates, allowing them to bring their authentic selves to work every day.

Étiqueté comme : Produits