Dainese is the global leader in protective equipment and apparel of excellence for motorcycling and dynamic sports. Headquartered in Vicenza, Italy, the company has a presence in EMEA, APAC and the Americas. Dainese owns three prestigious brands - Dainese, AGV and TCX - which are synonymous with innovation and technical excellence. It is present in 96 countries through a consolidated network of wholesale partners, 45 mono-brand shops and a direct e-commerce channel
We are looking for an Apparel Materials Specialist to manage the research of fabrics and trims across leather, woven, and knit categories for the Dainese Apparel collection.
This role is responsible for driving material research from concept through bulk production, partnering closely with Design, Merchandising, Product Development, and external suppliers to deliver best-in-class technical performance, aesthetic excellence, quality, cost efficiency, and on-time execution.
The ideal candidate combines deep expertise in technical and performance materials with a strong product mindset, hands-on development experience, and a passion for innovation.
KEY RESPONSIBILITIES:
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Research and development of fabrics and trims across leather, woven, knit, and technical performance materials
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Scout and identify new materials, finishes, and components aligned with Dainese product strategy and brand DNA
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Partner closely with Design and Merchandising to define material direction, fabric selection, and color development
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Develop new material solutions directly with mills and suppliers, balancing performance, quality, cost, and industrial scalability
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Evaluate design proposals and proactively recommend alternative materials where needed
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Manage sample yardage requests in line with development milestones and collection timelines
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Review and approve all development materials for hand feel, technical performance, quality standards, and color accuracy
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Identify material-related risks during development and define alternative solutions to support production readiness
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Support cost optimization through material selection and supplier negotiation while maintaining product integrity
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Build and nurture strong partnerships with mills, trim suppliers, and strategic vendors
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Ensure supplier alignment on development and production timelines
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Support troubleshooting and resolution of material-related issues during production
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Drive exclusive material developments to strengthen product DNA and competitive differentiation
REQUIREMENTS:
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Minimum 5 years of experience in materials development, textile R&D, or fabric sourcing within apparel or performance products
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Strong expertise in technical fabrics and performance materials
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Solid understanding of textile construction, finishes, trims, and material testing
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Proven experience working directly with mills and suppliers
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Strong organizational and project management skills
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Proactive, hands-on, and solution-oriented mindset
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Excellent communication and cross-functional collaboration skills
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Fluent in English and Italian (spoken and written)
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Good knowledge of Microsoft Office / Windows applications
We believe in the strength of diversity and the value created when different perspectives come together.
Being an inclusive company isn’t a goal – it’s the journey we choose to take every day. Our recruitment process complies with Italian Legislative Decrees 198/2006, 215/2003, and 216/2003, guaranteeing equal opportunity to whoever wishes to join us on this journey.
The position is open to everyone – we welcome every identity and orientation, safeguarding and promoting the free expression of each individual.
