Trend and Fabric R&D Innovation Manager

Position Summary
The Trend & Fabric Research and Development Manager is responsible for identifying, working with mills, and testing innovative fabrics, materials, and trends that align with Born Primitive’s brand ethos, performance standards, and aesthetic direction. This role bridges trend forecasting, textile innovation, and product development to ensure our collections remain competitive, functional, and forward-thinking.

Key Responsibilities

Trend Research & Forecasting

• Research and analyze global trends in athletic/performance, lifestyle apparel, outdoor and tactical apparel, including color, fabric, texture, and finish.
• Translate macro and micro trends into actionable concepts aligned with Born Primitive’s brand DNA to include color palettes, silhouette direction and fabric direction.
• Present seasonal trend direction, fabric stories,color palettes, trim directions, and innovation opportunities to internal stakeholders.

Fabric & Material Development

• Source, evaluate, and develop new fabrics and trims that meet performance, durability, comfort, and aesthetic requirements.
• Attend fabric shows to forge relationships with mills and source fabrics.
• Collaborate with mills, vendors, and suppliers to innovate proprietary or exclusive materials.
• Conduct fabric testing and performance validation (stretch, recovery, durability, moisture management, etc.). 
• Maintain a fabric library and detailed documentation of material specifications and performance results. 

Cross-Functional Collaboration

• Partner closely with Design, Product Development, and Production teams to integrate new fabrics into seasonal collections.
• Support fit, wear-testing, and production approval processes. 
• Ensure materials align with cost targets, quality standards, and production timelines.
• Partner closely with Creative team to ensure trend vision shows up accurately in creative marketing.

Innovation & Sustainability

• Identify opportunities for sustainable and responsible material solutions without compromising performance.
• Stay informed on emerging textile technologies, finishes, and manufacturing methods.
• Recommend innovations that enhance product differentiation and brand storytelling.

Vendor & Market Management

• Build and maintain strong relationships with fabric mills and suppliers.
• Attend trade shows, fabric fairs, and industry events as needed.
• Negotiate fabric capabilities, minimums, and lead times in partnership with product development and production teams.

Qualifications

Required

• Bachelor’s degree in Textile Science, Fashion Design, Product Development, or a related field.
• 3+ years of experience in trend forecasting, trend creation, color palette building, fabric research, textile development, or performance apparel R&D.
• Superior Color Vision with experience creating saleable color palettes.
• Strong knowledge of athletic and performance textiles.
• Proven ability to translate trends into commercially viable product concepts. 
• Excellent organizational, analytical, and communication skills.

Preferred

• Experience in activewear, performance, or fitness-focused apparel.
• Familiarity with CrossFit, training, or tactical apparel markets.
• Experience working with overseas mills and suppliers.
• Knowledge of sustainability certifications and material compliance standards.