ABOUT KHAITE

KHAITE is a way of looking at the world. Shaped by formative encounters, cultural touchstones, and secret desires, this point of view comes to life through womenswear and accessories that find confidence in contrast. Each piece proposes a fresh balance of opposing elements- masculine and feminine, strength and softness, structure and fluidity- while embodying a signature sensuality and ease.

Founded in 2016 by creative director Catherine Holstein and based in New York, KHAITE evolves with each season, building upon a foundation of robust yet polished items distinguished by exceptional materials, exquisite craftsmanship, and subtle yet striking details.

ABOUT THE OPPORTUNITY

We are looking for a Director, Raw Materials to join the KHAITE team. This role will report to the SVP, Product and will be based out of the NYC HQ offices. This role will lead, manage, and execute the seasonal raw material sourcing and development processes.

ESSENTIAL DUTIES & RESPONSIBILITIES

• Manage the raw material seasonal development calendars, budget and contribute to process evolution and execution.
• Engineer and drive material/trim/color sourcing and development from design brief to final sample production.
• Provide clear updates on raw material development weekly to design and product development team.
• Manage and execute seasonal artwork developments with freelance textile designer.
• Develop and implement raw material sourcing strategies aligned with the company’s goals.
• Establish, report, and analyze department KPI’s as the business evolves and change occurs (including but not limited to sustainability, costing, system accuracy, adoption rates, timelines, etc.).
• Manage and direct the maintenance of the reference library of approved textiles and trims; with marked approval dates and current technical spec/cost sheets.
• Forecast future material needs based on sales projects and product development plans
• Build and maintain relationships with new and existing suppliers
• Oversee the quality control processes for all incoming raw materials
• Maintain accuracy of inventory in house and at factories.
• Manage accurate handoff to production team as well as workshop any problematic fabric issues with mills in advance of production handoff.

SKILLS & REQUIREMENTS

Interpersonal Skills:

• Innovative and creative mindset
• Strong leadership and team management skills
• Excellent communication and negotiation skills
• Strong organization and time management skills
• Detail oriented

Education/Experience:

• 10+ years of experience in raw materials R&D and procurement, specifically on the product development side
• Proven track record of successful supplier negotiation and relationship management.
• Proficiency in Excel & Microsoft Office Suite
• Experience with RLM is a plus
• BS in Textile Design or related field
• Ability to travel domestically and internationally as required.
• Experience working with Italian mills
• Please note: This job description does not list all the duties of the job. Employees may be asked by management to perform other duties. The employer has the right to revise this job description at any time.

OUR VALUES

Creativity ~ We are always imagining, never imitating.

Integrity ~ We do the right thing.

Kindness ~ We value people and their ideas, so we act and speak with compassion.

Agility ~ We move with intention, flexibility, and speed to stay ahead.

Tenacity ~ We are insatiable. Our drive is relentless.

WE OFFER

The salary range is $130,000-150,000. The rate of pay offered will be dependent upon the candidates' relevant skills and experience. Other benefits include medical, dental, and vision programs, a company bonus plan, employee discounts and perks, a 401k plan with employer match, and other ancillary benefits.

KHAITE is an equal opportunity employer. We want to offer an inclusive environment of mutual respect where we welcome diversity and all our employees feel included, developed, and heard. We do not discriminate on the basis of any protected attribute, including race, religion, color, national origin, gender, sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, age, marital or veteran status, pregnancy or disability, or any other basis protected under applicable law. KHAITE recruits and recognizes all types of talent and singularities.

Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions. The employee is regularly required to sit; use hands to finger, handle, or feel and talk or hear. The employee is occasionally required to stand; walk; reach with hands and arms; climb or balance; stoop, kneel, crouch, or crawl; and taste or smell. The employee must occasionally lift and/or move up to 30 pounds. Specific vision abilities required by this job include close vision. The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job.

This employer participates in E-Verify and will provide the federal government with your Form I-9 information to confirm that you are authorized to work in the U.S. If E-Verify cannot confirm that you are authorized to work, this employer is required to give you written instructions and an opportunity to contact Department of Homeland Security (DHS) or Social Security Administration (SSA) so you can begin to resolve the issue before the employer can take any action against you, including terminating your employment. Employers can only use E-Verify once you have accepted a job offer and completed the Form I-9.