Manager, Materials Library, Apparel

Job description

ABOUT YOUR ROLE: The Manager, Global Materials Library is responsible for the day-to-day management and optimization of VF’s centralized materials library across apparel brands. Reporting to the Senior Manager of Material Library, this role leads a small team of fabric developers and plays a key role in executing material lifecycle strategies, maintaining physical and digital libraries, and supporting cross-brand collaboration. You will collaborate closely with Material Sourcing team, sourcing leaders, and suppliers to ensure the library is a high-performing, future-ready asset. YOUR RESPONSIBILITIES WILL INCLUDE : Library Operations & Lifecycle Management Manage the circulation, inventory, and lifecycle planning of materials in collaboration with brand and sourcing teams. Ensure physical libraries are maintained in strategic global locations and are accessible to product teams. Oversee the evaluation of material quality and performance to ensure alignment with sustainability, innovation, and cost goals. Conduct regular audits to identify material overlaps, underutilized items, and opportunities for consolidation. Team Leadership Lead and develop a team of 1–2 fabric developers, providing guidance, coaching, and performance feedback. Foster a collaborative and inclusive team culture that supports innovation and continuous improvement. Ensure alignment of team activities with the strategic direction set by the Director and Senior Manager of Material Library. Governance & Process Execution Support the implementation of standardized processes to rationalize material development requests and reduce redundancies. Maintain accurate metadata and data attributes to enable material consolidation and strategic leverage. Participate in seasonal and lifecycle core material reviews to assess relevance and usage. Stakeholder Collaboration Serve as a key point of contact for brand teams and material development leaders to access core materials and information. Collaborate with sourcing, product development, and sustainability teams to align on material needs and priorities. Support the execution of the Tier 2 mill matrix strategy and supplier alignment initiatives. Digital Tools & Data Analytics Maintain and update digital material library platforms and databases. Support the development of analytics tools to track material utilization, performance, and cost efficiency. Collaborate with IT and digital innovation teams to enhance system capabilities and user experience . WHAT WE WILL BE LOOKING FOR IN YOU : Technical Expertise Deep knowledge of fabric types, construction, finishing, and performance characteristics. Experience in material development, sourcing, and lifecycle management. Familiarity with sustainability standards and innovation in textile materials. Leadership & Collaboration Proven ability to lead and develop small teams. Strong interpersonal and communication skills to influence cross-functional stakeholders. Ability to build trusted relationships across teams and suppliers. Analytical & Strategic Thinking Strong analytical mindset with experience in data-driven decision-making. Ability to manage complex projects and prioritize effectively in a fast-paced environment. Experience with PLM, ERP, or material library systems is a plus. WHAT YOU CAN EXPECT FROM US: Being a part of a movement that is Purpose led which enables us to have a positive impact on communities around the world, it gives greater meaning to the work we do. Working with a team of diverse and sharp minds that work with an inclusive and global mindset because our differences are what make us stronger together. Providing you with the best in class, work environment, well-being policies and work place flexibility that is about helping you show up and lean into life with your whole self – emotionally, physically and socially. Statement on Diversity & Inclusion At VF, we foster an inclusive environment that welcomes and values the differences of our associates, customers, suppliers, and communities. VF is an equal opportunity employer. We’re committed to providing equal opportunities in employment and treating our associates and applicants without discrimination on the basis of their race, color, gender (including pregnancy, childbirth, breastfeeding or related medical conditions), age, national origin, religion, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, marital status, citizenship, disability, protected veteran status, HIV/AIDS status or any other legally protected factor. R-20260729-0005