Job Description:

    Job Title: Sourcing and Production Manager - Ladies Apparel

  Reports to:    Director of Sourcing and Production

  Department:    Sourcing and Production

  Position Type:    Full-Time

       Job Summary:  

Company is seeking a highly experienced Sourcing and Production Manager with a minimum of 15 years of experience in the ladies' apparel industry. This role demands extensive knowledge in sweater and knit production, strong negotiation skills, and the ability to manage a dynamic team. The ideal candidate will oversee the sourcing and production process, ensuring quality, efficiency, and cost-effectiveness from concept to delivery.

       Key Responsibilities:  

-   Sourcing Management:  

- Identify, evaluate, and establish relationships with suppliers and manufacturers globally, with

a focus on sweaters and knits.

- Maintain and update the yarn and fabric library, ensuring a comprehensive range of

materials are available for development.

- Source new materials, fabrics, and trims that align with design and cost objectives, ensuring

they meet the required quality standards.

-   Price Negotiation:  

- Lead price negotiations with suppliers to secure competitive pricing while maintaining the

quality of materials and finished products.

- Manage cost structures to ensure profitability, working closely with the finance team to monitor and report on production costs.

-   Production Management:  

- Oversee the entire production process, from raw material procurement to final product delivery, ensuring adherence to timelines and budgets.

- Prioritize workloads for fit technicians, ensuring timely processing of fit approvals and submissions.

- Manage daily communication and follow-up with factories regarding submissions, addressing any issues that arise promptly.

- Develop new programs and styles in collaboration with the design and technical teams, from initial concept to final style info sheets.

- Ensure the timely delivery of products by closely monitoring production schedules and adjusting plans as necessary to meet deadlines.

-   Team Leadership:  

- Manage a small team of coordinators, providing guidance and support to ensure efficient workflow and high-quality output.

- Foster a collaborative environment, encouraging continuous improvement and professional development within the team.

-   Sales and Communication:  

- Collaborate with the sales team to collect customer bookings and accurately forecast season buys and repeats.

- Analyze sales data to determine opportunities for repeat orders, ensuring that production aligns with market demand and inventory levels.

-   Vendor Relations:  

- Build and maintain strong relationships with key suppliers and manufacturers, conducting regular performance reviews to ensure compliance with quality, delivery, and cost standards.

- Lead initiatives to enhance vendor performance, including training and process improvement measures.

-   Compliance and Risk Management:  

- Ensure all sourcing and production activities comply with ethical standards, including fair labor practices and environmental sustainability.

- Identify and mitigate risks related to sourcing, production, and supply chain management.

       Qualifications:  

-   Experience:  

- A minimum of 15 years of experience in sourcing and production management within the ladies' apparel industry, with a strong emphasis on sweaters and knits.

- Proven expertise in price negotiation, vendor management, and production cycle oversight.

- Experience in managing teams, with a demonstrated ability to lead and mentor coordinators and fit technicians.

-   Skills:  

- In-depth knowledge of yarns, fabrics, trims, and garment construction, in all categories particularly in knitwear.

- Strong negotiation skills and experience in cost management.

- Excellent communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to collaborate effectively across departments.

- Strong analytical skills with experience in sales analysis and forecasting.

- Proficiency in production management software and tools.

-   Education:  

- A Bachelor's degree in Fashion, Textiles, Supply Chain Management, or a related field is preferred.

- Additional certifications in supply chain management, production management, or quality control are a plus.

       Key Competencies:  

-   Attention to Detail:    Highly meticulous in managing quality control, production timelines, and vendor relationships.

-   Problem-Solving:    Proactive in identifying and resolving production-related issues.

-   Time Management:    Skilled in managing multiple projects and prioritizing tasks effectively.

-   Leadership:    Capable of leading a team with clear direction and support, fostering a culture of continuous improvement.

-   Ethical Standards:    Committed to maintaining ethical sourcing and production practices.

       Benefits:  

- Competitive salary and benefits package.

- Opportunity to work in a dynamic and growing company within the fashion industry.

- Professional development and career advancement opportunities.

- Collaborative and supportive work environment.

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This job description is tailored to include all specified responsibilities while ensuring that the role is well-defined and aligned with industry standards.