* In association with the General Manager (Fabric Division), define fabric types and constructions required for sourcing.
* In collaboration with the General Manager (Fabric Division), define areas of the world market capable of producing fabrics to match sourcing requirements, and research all potential companies in the countries defined. Produce brief reports on contacts made and conclusions resulting to agreed timescales.
* In discussion with the General Manager (Fabric Division) define companies with required capability and personally visit them (both UK and overseas) to assess both their production and commercial capabilities.
* Produce detailed visit reports reviewing all aspects of the operation from fibre to fabric, noting any potential future abilities or failings, and provide in accordance with defined timescales.
* In discussion with the Head of Fabric Production, define new suppliers approved from reports (above) and arrange suitable fabric sampling for plant trials. Liaise with the laboratory and provide the potential supplier with information on data attained.
* Subject to successful trial and fabric requirement, define in association with the supplier first batch production. Negotiate prices and favourable terms on behalf of the company.
Secondary Objectives
* Provide and maintain written specification sheets in collaboration with the Quality Controller, and submit for discussion with the General Manager (Fabric Division). Review specification every 6 months noting in particular weight or construction changes.
* Meet with all suppliers to discuss the relevant fabric specification sheets and ensure a copy is duly signed by a representative of that company.
* Ensure all suppliers understand and will conform to the 6-week unfinished stock requirement. Present copies of the signed sheets to both the General Manager (Fabric Division) and the Fabric Quality Controller, in accordance with specified timescales.
* Attain through negotiation special discount allowances from fabric suppliers to support specific events where such action would be deemed appropriate. Record and report all requests, with response, to the General Manager (Fabric Division).
* By discussion with the Preparation Manager and Quality Controller be aware of current supplier performance and assist with issue resolution.
* When new design samples are provided by supplier, forward to the Fabric Designer for assessment by the Sales and Marketing Director. Response to be defined via the Fabric Development Meetings.
* Propose attendance of international fabric exhibitions of relevance. If relevant and approved, attend in co-ordination with potential supplier visits whenever practicable. Prepare a report within 2 weeks of attendance.
General
* Your sourcing and reviewing of potential suppliers will be programmed and you will be expected to satisfy the requirements specified.
* Your work place and working area must be kept clean and tidy. You must adhere to the Company's Health and Safety standards as defined in the Health and Safety Policy.
* Perform within the requirements of your position and maintain the Company's Quality Procedures.
* The management of the Fabric Department is achieved with a multi-skilled and flexible team; you may be required to carry out any other duties (subject to training) by the Head of Fabric Production. This may involve working in other areas of Fabric Production, or require increased UK and overseas travel.
Hours of Work
Normal working hours Monday to Friday are 7.30am to 4.30pm with 1 hour for lunch. Generally your hours of work will vary according to the workload of the Company and particularly during your travel throughout the UK and overseas. You will be expected to work those hours necessary to adequately perform your duties.
Qualifications Required
* Knowledge of Fabrics and their properties
* Good negotiation skills and communication skills