Groupe Dynamite Inc. Fabric Specialist

Overview

Groupe Dynamite Inc. (GDI) is a Montréal-based, public company of integrated omni-channel brands, designing and distributing accessible, trend-forward fashion for women since 1975.

Our mission of "Empowering YOU to be YOU, one outfit at a time" is brought to life through the GARAGE and DYNAMITE banners and represents the consumer-centric core of GDI's long-standing success as a leading retailer in North America.

Today, GDI operates nearly 300 stores across Canada and the United States, as well as shoppable brand experiences at Garageclothing.com and Dynamiteclothing.com.

Job Summary:

Reporting to the Director of Fabric and Quality Control, the Fabric Specialist is responsible for maintaining a structured fabric development process that supports the design and brand direction of our collections. This role requires ensuring cross-functional collaboration with all relevant stakeholders to gain an in-depth understanding of new fabric requirements and adherence to production calendar timelines.

Main Responsibilities:

Fabric Sourcing and Development:

• Manage fabric sourcing and development from initial handoff to final approval;
• Ensure the delivery of quality, manufacturing-ready fabrics that align with aesthetic goals, sourcing requirements, as well as cost, quality, and testing standards;
• Specify aesthetic and technical details of new fabrics (construction, yarn, finishing) for suppliers to source or develop;
• Receive and evaluate all fabric submissions, provide relevant feedback, and present final options to Design teams for approval;
• Collaborate with the Sourcing Department to ensure geographically sound fabric development, allocating sourcing to preferred mills and suppliers;
• Promote the use of sustainable materials in fabric selection.

Technical Guidance:

• Provide technical fabric guidance to Merchandising, Design, and Sourcing teams to support the product development process.

Fabric Library Management:

• Create and manage a comprehensive fabric library;
• Share new developments across various commodities.

Testing and Quality Assurance:

• Request fabric testing from mills as needed to address potential issues (i.e., crocking, tensile strength, slippage, shrinkage);
• Ensure adopted fabrics meet quality requirements and proactively troubleshoot issues before bulk production.

Bulk Fabric Review:

• Conduct final reviews of fabric lots that do not meet all fabric standards to assess commercial acceptance.

Communication and Coordination:

• Communicate effectively with the Shanghai Regional Office (SRO) team to coordinate efforts in fabric development, adoption, and bulk approval;
• Collaborate with the Fabric and Quality Control Department for efficient process flow and to meet final garment quality requirements.

Qualifications:

• DEC or Bachelor Degree in Fashion Design, Business Administration, or related field; fabric specialization a plus;
• 5+ years of related experience, preferably in fabric and product development within the apparel industry;
• Extensive knowledge of fabric: yarns, constructions and finishes;
• Comprehensive understanding of fabric and garment production cycle;
• Knowledge of fabric testing and quality control;
• Experience working with overseas factories in a product development capacity;
• Proficient in Microsoft Office and Google Suites;
• Knowledge of Bamboo Rose is a plus.

At GDI, you will be part of a growing organization that understands the importance of investing in people and offers you:

• A comprehensive compensation package that includes performance-driven bonuses;
• A group retirement savings program with employer matching;
• Flexible group insurance with personalized coverage that meets your needs;
• An employee discount at Garage and Dynamite;
• Exclusive private sample sales;
• A flexible vacation policy;
• And more!

GDI has been repeatedly voted one of Montréal's Top Employers and one of Canada's Top Employers for Young People.

Our promise...
No day will be like the last-we aim to be better today than we were yesterday. We are committed to employment equity.

Candidates that are retained will be called for an interview.

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