Role & Responsibilities:
As part of the Global Material Supply (GMS) Team, the Development Engineer will manage the Apparel and Equipment material development activities that services all Brands and products sourced through Asia Sourcing Office in Vietnam. The individual is responsible to manage and execute the apparel & equipment material development and pre- production activities. The role needs to operationally connect with Brands, Sourcing, Suppliers, Quality and Responsible Sourcing & Sustainability organizations. Frequent influential communication to external partners are required.
Key Result Areas:
• Manage the development of apparel & equipment materials through the go to market calendar to ensure all milestones are timely met.
• Actively support sustainable material roadmaps through identification of supplier capabilities, capacities and innovative sustainable alternatives
• Support apparel & equipment material innovation and capabilities through supplier research and partnership in collaboration with Brand Development and Innovation Teams
• Support material cost negotiation tactics against set costing savings targets by utilizing fact- based methodology, and driving for positive outcomes in supplier facing discussions
• Support Material Team by leading resolution of quality issues at factories and with vendors in collaboration with Sourcing and Quality teams.
• Partner cross- functionally with VF Materials Labs, Sourcing and Quality team in managing all aspects of material quality from establishing guidelines to delivering product to factories
• Manage the update of supplier database and material library. Handle invoice etc administration works.

Competency Requirements:
Behavioral Competencies -
•High EQ in working with cross function/cultural partners
•Strong interpersonal and communication skills (oral and written)
•Optimistic and dare to take calculated risks
•Team player and the ability to work independently
•Bold and creative thinking
•Competent in managing relationships with suppliers and internal business partners
•Able to work under pressure with multiple tasks simultaneously while meeting tight deadlines
Functional Competencies –
•Able to review materials and suggest alternative options for costing and technical specification purposes
•Strong analytical and problem-solving skills
•High understanding of textile related commodities (Cotton, Polyester, Nylon, etc.)
•Textile material development experience is an advantage
Experience
Minimum Relevant Experience:
Experience in Apparel, Footwear, Equipment materials and/or Sourcing and Supply Chain organizations but not limited to