Job Information
New Era LLC Product Developer, Sourcing Coordinator (Headwear and Apparel) in Buffalo, New York
Since 1920, New Era has been hand-crafting the finest headwear and apparel in the world. New Era employees are masters of their craft. We are innovators, architects of culture, experts, and forward thinkers. We demand excellence because we pride ourselves on the quality of our products and the authenticity of our brand. Every day at New Era is a new experience because we are redefining what it is to be a lifestyle brand.
This family-owned business was built on the hard work and dedication of our employees. The creativity, innovation, and passion our teams of people around the globe bring every day have made New Era what it is today.
Apply to join New Era's team!
Coordinator, Technical Sourcing
The role of the Product Developer, Sourcing Coordinator (Headwear and Apparel) is to support and execute New Era’s global sourcing strategy and the entire product development process. Work closely with the design and merchandising teams to develop on trend headwear and apparel across multiple product categories. Establish relationships with global suppliers and provide critical support to the overall product development process. The Product Developer, Sourcing Coordinator (Headwear and Apparel) will work closely with peers cross-functionally to turn ideas into great merchandise.
Responsibilities
Collaborate with internal teams (licensed management, merchandising, design, production, planning, logistics, customer relations, social compliance and quality) to execute the product development process while managing and executing the TAC (Time & Action Calendar)
Must be able to achieve “Superior” level on Farnsworth-Munsell 100 Hue test[MOU3] to properly identify color
Clearly understand core supply chain strategies and how the development process impacts each supply chain partner in production and is able to use this knowledge to execute the global sourcing strategy
Understand the headwear and apparel cost structure across multiple products. Able to use this knowledge to negotiate price across global suppliers to analyze cost, suggest methods to reduce cost and achieve all margin goals
Able to interpret and understand specs/sourcing tech packs and is able to effectively communicate and collaborate with design and suppliers to ensure design expectation is maximized and cost is minimized
Issue, monitor and execute prototypes and sales samples development requests. Ensure all samples are shipped and delivered on time as per the TAC
Enter and manage all development details including timelines and costing information in PLM (Product Lifecycle Management)
Able to communicate style exceptions not meeting category margin targets to the merchandising and licensed management teams prior to finalizing cost
Identify and proactively communicate any excessive lead time or minimum order challenges during development
Lead the development for all new fabric and trims to support finished goods production
Ensure all raw materials are developed, approved and forecasted prior to being ordered as per the TAC
Execute and support all technical aspects of product development; including pattern, fit, construction, technical drawings, and patent drawings to support the technical specifications for product in development and production
Responsible to execute silhouette development
Conducts fit research internally and externally
Provide recommendations to Sourcing and Product Management teams
Create development and measurement specs
Grade to size runs
Digitize final patterns upon approval and maintain pattern library
Maintain physical sample library of approved silhouettes
Manage and maintain all silhouette data in Product Lifecycle Management (PLM) system
Support and execute color approvals for fabrics and trims
Manage color and raw material standard library data in Product Lifecycle Management (PLM) system
Lead communication, interactions and needs of various levels of hierarchy within the global teams/departments and overseas vendors
Communicate product details to Design, Sourcing, Product Management, Quality, and overseas vendors to ensure accuracy and brand integrity through the full lifecycle of the product
Plan and track developments to ensure timely completion, based on pre-determined timeline between Sourcing, Design and/or Product Management
Working closely with overseas vendors in all aspects of technical design and silhouette development and ensure all deadlines are achieved [MOU2]
Keep all sensitive matters confidential
Other duties as assigned
Knowledge, Skills and Abilities
Required to complete Farnsworth-Munsell 100 Hue test [MOU3] during the interview process; must achieve “Superior” level
Strong computer skills; Microsoft Word, Excel and PowerPoint and the ability to learn and utilize new systems
Ability to establish relationships and interact with various levels within the organization
Ability to manage multiple priorities, meet deadlines and efficiently prioritize workday to maximize productivity
Strong verbal and written communication skills with the ability to communicate effectively and professionally
Enthusiastic, pro-active, and positive person who adapts to change and with urgency and persistence
The ability to be innovative and creative when handling difficult business challenges
Experience negotiating finished goods costing
Comprehensive understanding of the headwear, apparel and accessories markets and a basic understanding of fabric and textile manufacturing
Knowledge of trade regulations, production cycle timeline and calendar management
Ability to analyze information, make decisions, and recommend actions to drive business results
Understand the importance of this position and the role it plays and able to bring improvements to the bottom line through price reductions of goods and services
Working knowledge of PLM/ERP/MRP systems, quality and supplier management
Experience establishing credible relationships with suppliers, customers, and employees
Must be able to accurately identify specific colors and fine details (Color Hue test will be administered)
Must be able to lift and carry up to 10 lbs
Education and Experience
One (1) to Three (3) years of global sourcing experience in Softline; strong experience in overseas sourcing preferred
Bachelor’s degree in Textile Design or relevant field; Relevant job experience in lieu of degree will be considered
Technical Design and pattern making experience preferred
Skilled in working with Adobe Illustrator and Photoshop
Strong PLM experience preferred
SAP experience preferred
Travel Requirement
- 0% to 5%; domestic and/or global
New Era Cap, LLC is an Affirmative Action and Equal Opportunity Employer that believes in inclusion and does not discriminate against any candidate or employee on the basis of race, color, sex, age, religion, national origin, sexual orientation, gender identity, disability, veteran status, genetics, or any other basis protected by applicable local, state or federal laws.
The salary range for this posted position is $50,500 - $57,000 (plus bonus & benefits) and pertains to candidates located in Western New York. Actual compensation is determined by a wide array of factors including but not limited to skill set, education, essential job duties and requirements, and necessary experience.
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