Raw Materials Developer, Accessories

About this role

ALO is seeking a Raw Materials Developer for Accessories to lead material development from concept through commercialization for bags, hats, socks, and other accessories. You'll manage technical specifications, supplier relationships, cost optimization, and ensure materials meet design, quality, performance, and sustainability standards while partnering across Design, Product Development, and Sourcing teams.

What you'll do

• Lead raw material development for accessories categories including wovens, knits, leather, synthetics, coatings, and specialty components
• Establish and validate material specifications against performance requirements like abrasion, colorfastness, tensile strength, and durability
• Troubleshoot material issues such as delamination, color migration, and coating failures
• Manage raw material costs, pricing negotiations with suppliers, and cost optimization opportunities
• Build and maintain supplier relationships with mills, tanneries, trim vendors, and hardware suppliers
• Create and maintain complete documentation including specifications, test reports, compliance certificates, and approval history

What they're looking for

• Raw material development and engineering for accessories
• Knowledge of soft materials, trims, hardware, and construction techniques
• Material testing requirements and failure mode analysis
• Supplier management and multi-vendor commercialization
• PLM systems, Excel, and development tracking tools
• Technical problem-solving and material judgment
• Cross-functional communication and stakeholder management
• Leather and alternative leather development experience