Director of R&D (Research & Development)

Role OverviewThe Director of R&D (Research & Development) is responsible for driving innovation, fabric and material exploration, and product development strategy across the brand. This role partners closely with Design, Production, and Merchandising, to ensure new concepts, materials, and construction techniques are commercially viable, on brand, and scalable.This is a hands-on leadership role for a strategic thinker with deep technical expertise, a strong aesthetic point of view, and a passion for innovation within fashion and lifestyle products.Key ResponsibilitiesInnovation & Product DevelopmentLead R&D strategy across categories, identifying new materials, fabrics, trims, techniques, and construction methods that elevate the brandResearch and develop new product concepts from ideation through production readinessPartner with Design to translate creative vision into technically sound, manufacturable productsStay current on industry trends, emerging technologies, and material innovationsFabric, Materials & TestingOversee fabric and material research, testing, and approval processesCollaborate with mills, vendors, and suppliers to develop exclusive or custom materialsEnsure all materials meet quality, performance, and compliance standardsSupport sustainability initiatives through responsible material sourcing and innovationCross-Functional LeadershipServe as a key liaison between Design, Production, Sourcing, Merchandising, and Quality teamsAlign R&D timelines with seasonal calendars and production milestonesSupport cost engineering and margin goals while maintaining design integrityTroubleshoot technical challenges and propose solutions throughout developmentProcess & SystemsEstablish and refine R&D workflows, documentation, and development standardsBuild seasonal boards for merch review and other cross functional presentationBuild scalable processes that support growth while maintaining quality and creativityManage development libraries (fabrics, trims, techniques, testing results)Qualifications10+ years of experience in product development, R&D, or technical design within fashion or lifestyle brandsPrior leadership experience managing teams and cross-functional initiativesDeep knowledge of fabrics, materials, garment construction, and manufacturing processesStrong understanding of cost, margins, and production scalabilityProven ability to balance creative vision with technical executionExcellent communication and stakeholder management skillsExperience working with global vendors and suppliersProficiency with PLM systems and development toolsJ-18808-Ljbffr