This is a R&D Textile Lead role with Workwear Group based in Melbourne, VIC, AU Workwear Group Role Seniority - mid level More about the R&D Textile Lead role at Workwear Group About Us Workwear Group (WWG) is part of Wesfarmers Industrial & Safety a division of Wesfarmers, a top 20 ASX listed company with over 100,000 employees. Housed under the banner of Workwear Group, our three iconic brands - KingGee, Hard Yakka and NNT - have been in the business of delivering workwear since the late 1920's. We are the trusted partner in workwear solutions, manufacturing over seven million units each year. What sets us apart is our continuous investment in innovation, market knowledge, pioneering ideas and sustainability practices. We work as one team. We put our customers first and are passionate about what we do. Joining WWG is an opportunity to thrive in an inspiring, safe, and inclusive community. About The Role You will support the development, implementation and maintenance of the sourcing strategy relative to fabric and trims. Responsible for managing the impact of fabric and trims on COGS (cost of goods) efficiencies to ensure maximum return. Support product development by providing R&D support to product briefs. This includes new textile and trim development, product compliance and market trends analysis. What You’ll Be Doing Responsible for managing a team of R&D experts: to success through coaching and strategic focus Consulted on ensuring all fabric and trim performance standards: are representative of our requirements and communicated internally and externally Responsible for Delivering all product development needs and COGS targets: Ensure a clear costing strategy is in place to achieve optimum results for the business. Responsible for ensuring all fabric and trims supplier meet our ethical and sustainability requirements Responsible for Developing and implementing the fabric and trims sourcing strategy which will see continuous cost reductions, shorter lead times and stronger relationships within the supply base. Responsible for Stakeholder Engagement: Develop, manage and maintain exceptional relationships with internal and external stakeholders, such as suppliers, sales managers, general managers (WWG), fabric and technical teams. Consulted on managing continuous improvement of supplier cost, quality and delivery. Consulted on ensuring standard operating procedures and sourcing guidelines are in place and adhered to Who We’re Looking For At our company, we value not only our great brands but also the people and teams that drive our success. In addition to technical skills, we seek team members who possess the following personable qualities: Ability to articulate Fabric Knowledge and Ideation internally as well as to our customers Excellent time & project management skills Ability to contribute and work as part of a team Self-development to improve performance – ensuring quality, innovation and continuous improvement Communicating well and working in partnership with others Adaptable; flexible in handling change Initiative; ready to act on opportunities. What We’re Looking For You will be highly technical and possess strong communication skills to influence stakeholders at all levels. Along with your business acumen, you will have: Ideally 3 years experience in similar Textile management / leadership positions Bachelor’s degree in Apparel and/or Textile Technology, with knowledge of textiles, fibres, yarns, knitting, dyeing, print techniques, fabric properties and garment finishing techniques and construction Connection with key industry bodies such as Educational Institutions, Testing Facilities, Standards Australia and Australian Fashion Council as examples is desirable Capable of producing precise technical specification Ability to adapt skill set across various product categories within general merchandise Possess a refined aesthetic sensibility related to colour, composition, materials, coordination, and execution Proven experience in cultivating relationships with key stakeholders. (Internal & External) Comfortable working in a fast-paced environment while meeting tight deadlines Strong influencing abilities and presentation skills, with the capacity to effectively articulate and advocate for commercial outcomes to key stakeholders Corporate, Work wear or performance apparel experience desirable Experience communicating with offshore suppliers desirable Experience with Industrial work wear standards desirable What We Offer The chance to join a great team of like-minded, hard-working people who are passionate about achieving our vision and the growth objectives of the company Flexible working environment, allowing for work from home day/s each week A competitive salary package and suite of benefits and perks, including a 50% discount on our brands Hard Yakka, KingGee and NNT and 5% Wesfarmers discount for Kmart, Bunnings, Officeworks and more A tailored career and development plan, plus reward and recognition programs. Whatever your goals we’re here to support you on that journey Our Wellbeing program, Thrive, with activities designed to support the Financial Wellness of our team, Celebrate Diversity, ensure we Get Physical and maintain Healthy Minds, including challenges, yoga, meditation and access to our Employee Assistance Program We Learn, a dedicated hub for all things learning and development. We actively work on creating a safe and inclusive environment free of discrimination. At Workwear Group we aspire to build a culture where diversity is celebrated, where Team Members feel a sense of “I Belong” and are empowered to bring their whole selves to work. You can follow us on LinkedIn or see our company careers page for more opportunities https://www.workweargroup.com.au/careers Thank you for your interest in Workwear Group. Due to anticipated high volumes of applicants, only shortlisted candidates will be contacted. We are not seeking support for this recruitment, our inhouse recruitment have got it! Thanks Before we jump into the responsibilities of the role. No matter what you come in knowing, you’ll be learning new things all the time and the Workwear Group team will be there to support your growth. Please consider applying even if you don't meet 100% of what’s outlined Key Responsibilities Managing a team of R&D experts Delivering product development needs Stakeholder engagement Key Strengths Fabric knowledge and ideation ⏰ Project management ️ Communication skills Industry connections Technical specification Aesthetic sensibility A Final Note: This is a role with Workwear Group not with Hatch.