Head of Business Development - Fabric

JOB PURPOSE

Leads and inspires the Fabric Business Development and Sales team in the Group, driving revenue growth through strategic planning and execution. Secures sales from existing and new business opportunities, fostering strong customer relationships. Manages the entire fabric development process, from concept to production, ensuring the delivery of high-quality, cost-competitive active and athleisure knit fabrics. Collaborates effectively with textile manufacturers to guarantee a seamless and efficient supply chain.

KEY RESPONSIBILITIES

• Identify and establish key fabric trends for each season
• Develop and execute comprehensive strategies and action plans to leverage these trends and drive sales.
• Collaborate with internal partners (Product Development, Design, Sourcing, Sales) to promote these opportunities and maximize sales potential.
• Prepare and present key trend insights to buying and design teams, ensuring alignment on seasonal sales strategies.
• Work closely with product managers and merchandise teams to review and manage sales growth through fabric selection and pricing.
• Drive cross-costing initiatives on core global programs to optimize fabric pricing and enhance sales competitiveness.
• Proactively manage the sourcing critical path to ensure timely fabric delivery and minimize sales delays.
• Coordinate with production, quality, and export teams to ensure timely shipments and a smooth sales process.
• Conduct customer/market mapping to identify cross-selling and up-selling opportunities for fabrics across regions.
• Build and maintain a competitive analysis to stay ahead of market trends and identify new sales opportunities.
• Manage and actively drive the sales pipeline for new fabric-sales opportunities.
  

QUALIFICATIONS

• Bachelor's degree in Textile Engineering, Business Management, Fashion Design, or a related field.
• 15+ years of experience in the textile or apparel industry, with a focus on fabric sales and business development.
• Strong understanding of fashion trends.
• Ability to identify and translate trends into commercially viable fabric applications.
• In-depth knowledge of fabrics, accessories, and fabric construction.
• Understanding of textile processes (spinning, knitting, weaving, dyeing, and finishing).
• Proven track record of building and managing strong fabric sales pipelines and business/action plans.
• Prior experience working in US & European customers/buyers directly
  
  

COMPETENCIES

• Excellent communication and negotiation skills
• Strong social skills
• Data-driven decision making
• Proven leadership experience
• Promotes a positive and ethical work environment
• Independent worker with a strong work ethic
• Excellent time management skills
• Proficient in computer applications
• Strong command of written and spoken English