Head of Raw Materials Sourcing

Position

We are seeking an Head of Raw Material Sourcing to lead our strategic initiatives in securing the highest caliber raw materials for our Leathergoods Division. This pivotal role demands a leader with profound industry expertise, a keen eye for innovation, and an unwavering commitment to excellence. The Head of Raw Material Sourcing will be instrumental in shaping our sourcing strategies, ensuring alignment with our brand's luxury positioning, and driving sustainable practices across our supply chain.

Job responsibilities

• Provide comprehensive strategic direction and leadership to the Raw Material Sourcing division, ensuring its seamless integration with the overarching objectives of quality, creativity, sustainability, and industrial scalability
• Spearhead the identification, rigorous evaluation, and strategic development of a global network of premium suppliers and innovative sourcing opportunities for all raw materials and critical components
• Proactively monitor and analyze global market trends, emerging material innovations, and advancements in sustainable practices within the luxury fashion and leathergoods sectors. Translate these insights into actionable strategies
• Foster robust collaborations with Design, Product Development, Purchasing, and Production teams to ensure the seamless integration of raw material sourcing into the collection development lifecycle and to guarantee industrial feasibility
• Oversee all material development initiatives, ensuring stringent adherence to our exacting quality standards, environmental stewardship principles, and international safety regulations
• Cultivate and nurture enduring, high-value relationships with key suppliers and external partners, ensuring alignment with the company's long-term strategic sourcing objectives
• Drive sophisticated cost analysis and material pricing strategies to optimize value without compromising quality or ethical sourcing principles.
• Actively represent the brand at premier industry events and lead market scouting initiatives to identify groundbreaking trends, transformative technologies, and unparalleled sourcing opportunities

Profile

• Significant experience developed in the leathergoods industry within a luxury brand;
• Strong knowledge of raw materials, supplier management, and sourcing processes;
• Solid understanding of industrial and product development dynamics within complex organizations;
• Excellent communication, negotiation, and stakeholder management skills;
• Leadership capabilities and previous team management experience;
• Strong sensitivity toward quality, innovation, and sustainability topics;
• Fluent English is required; French and Italian are considered a strong plus.
• Gross annual salary of at least €70.000