Materials Procurement Manager - Silk

THE IDEAL CANDIDATE

We are seeking a highly skilled and experienced Materials Procurement Manager – Silk Commodity to lead our strategic efforts in optimizing silk material sourcing across our products. This role is critical to our strategic goal of reducing product costs while ensuring the highest quality standards. Reporting to the Head of Global Procurement, the ideal candidate will leverage their deep expertise in the silk value chain—from farm to finished materials—to identify and implement cost-saving opportunities, manage market volatility, and strengthen supplier relationships. Success in this role means achieving measurable cost reductions, securing supply continuity, and contributing to product excellence by aligning material sourcing with the company’s innovation goals.

This role offers the opportunity to make a significant impact on our business, contribute to the company’s growth, and shape the future of our silk sourcing strategy.

 RESPONSIBILITIES:

• Develop and execute a comprehensive silk procurement strategy that optimizes cost, quality, and sustainability across all applicable products.

• Build, maintain, and expand a global network of silk suppliers, including farms, reelers, spinners, and weavers, to ensure reliable and competitive sourcing.

• Analyze and monitor the global silk market, including price trends, supply demand dynamics, and emerging risks, to inform procurement strategies and minimize price volatility.

• Establish and maintain long-term partnerships with key suppliers, negotiating favorable terms and driving value across the supply chain.

• Collaborate with cross-functional teams including sourcing, product development, quality assurance, and merchandising to align material procurement strategies with product requirements and company objectives.

• Identify and evaluate opportunities for cost savings, innovation, and process efficiencies across the silk value chain.

• Create and implement strategies for risk mitigation, including multi-sourcing and forward purchasing.

• Lead supplier performance management efforts, to monitor the meeting of quality assurance, compliance, and sustainability standards.

• Provide regular reporting on procurement performance, cost savings, and market conditions.

QUALIFICATIONS:

• Proven experience in materials procurement, supply chain management, or sourcing, with a specific focus on silk or silk-derived materials.

• Deep understanding of the silk value chain, including farms, reelers, spinners, and weavers, as well as silk types, quality differences, and end-use applications.

• Strong professional network and/or knowledge of major players in the silk market.

• Expertise in analyzing and mitigating price volatility in the silk market and managing commodity risk.

• Strong negotiation skills and experience managing supplier relationships across multiple geographies.

• Demonstrated success in achieving cost reduction and process optimization goals.

• Ability to work effectively with cross-functional teams, including product development and sourcing.

• Excellent analytical, problem-solving, and decision-making skills.

Preferred:

• Advanced degree in supply chain, business, or a related field.

• Experience implementing sustainability initiatives within the silk or textile supply chain.

• Familiarity with digital tools and systems for procurement and supplier management.

• Knowledge of trade policies, import/export regulations, and logistics specific to silk.