Job Description

We are seeking an experienced materials professional to lead the execution of the materials function across Asia, with a strong focus on leather and key material categories. Based in Vietnam, this role will act as the regional materials lead, responsible for implementing global materials strategy and ensuring consistent delivery across suppliers, factories and cross-functional teams.

Working closely with Design, Product Development, Costing and Operations, you will play a key role in delivering materials that meet brand, commercial and performance requirements—balancing quality, cost, innovation and speed to market.

This role is critical in ensuring that global materials direction is effectively translated into regional execution, driving supplier performance, process discipline and continuous improvement.

The Responsibilities:

Regional Execution & Alignment

• Execute and embed the global materials strategy within the Asia region, ensuring full alignment with global standards, policies and direction

• Act as the regional materials lead, representing the global materials function and ensuring consistency in approach across teams and suppliers

• Work in close partnership with the Global Head of Materials to ensure alignment, transparency and effective communication of risks and opportunities

Supplier Management & Sourcing

• Manage and develop relationships with key T2 (materials) suppliers and support alignment with T1 (factories)

• Implement the global sourcing strategy within the region, ensuring suppliers meet performance, cost, quality and service expectations

• Monitor supplier performance against KPIs, driving improvement through structured reviews and action plans

• Support supplier selection and onboarding in line with global governance and AVL requirements

• Ensure supplier capability and capacity align with seasonal and long-term business needs
  

Materials Development & Innovation

• Identify and deliver material solutions that align with global direction and support product differentiation

• Collaborate with Design and Product Development teams to ensure material selections meet aesthetic, functional and commercial requirements

• Support the development and introduction of new materials, finishes and processes in line with global innovation priorities
  

Commercial & Cost Management

• Partner with Costing and Development teams to deliver materials that meet margin and pricing targets

• Provide regional market insight on material pricing, trends and cost drivers

• Support negotiation processes to achieve competitive pricing while maintaining quality and performance standards

• Identify opportunities for cost optimisation and material consolidation
  

Process, Calendars, and Delivery

• Own material readiness within regional development timelines, ensuring alignment with seasonal calendars

• Track and report material status across development and production, highlighting risks and mitigation plans

• Proactively identify constraints and work cross-functionally to resolve issues impacting timelines

• Ensure timely delivery of materials that meet design, cost, quality and production requirements
  

Quality, Testing, and Compliance

• Implement global material standards, specifications and testing requirements across the region

• Ensure all materials meet physical testing standards and Restricted Substances List (RSL) compliance prior to production

• Work with suppliers and factories to maintain consistent quality and performance standards
  

Sustainability & Responsibility

• Support the implementation of global sustainability initiatives, including responsible sourcing and traceability requirements

• Ensure compliance with global standards, including sourcing leather from LWG-certified tanneries

• Work with suppliers to improve sustainability practices in line with brand expectations and regulatory requirements
  

Tools, Data, and Governance

• Implement and maintain the Approved Vendor List (AVL) within the region in line with global governance

• Ensure accurate and timely reporting of material data, risks and performance metrics

• Support the management of material libraries and ensure alignment with global standards

• Track and report KPIs, SLAs and supplier performance to drive accountability and transparency

The Person:

• Extensive experience in materials management within the footwear industry, with strong expertise in leather

• Strong understanding of material sourcing, supplier networks and manufacturing across Asia

• Commercially aware, with experience in cost structures, pricing and negotiation support

• Proven ability to work cross-functionally and influence stakeholders across regions

• Solid understanding of footwear construction, materials performance and development processes

• Experience with material testing, compliance and regulatory requirements

• Strong communication skills, with the ability to operate effectively in a global environment

• Fluent in English; additional languages (Mandarin and/or Vietnamese) are advantageous

• Detail-oriented, organised and able to manage multiple priorities in a fast-paced environment

• A collaborative mindset, with the ability to drive execution while aligning with global direction
  

We recognise that not everyone will meet every requirement. If you’re excited about this role and feel like you could add value, we’d love to hear from you 🙌.

The Benefits:

We’re all about giving people the tools to be the best they can be. Because, when we’re at our best (happy and healthy) together we have the power to do something amazing and really deliver. Our benefits include medical and social insurances, pension contribution, holiday, free pairs and product discounts, FitFlop Feel-Good program (including everything from mindfulness to financial wellbeing) and a full blended learning and development calendar.

Equal Opportunities:

FitFlop is an equal opportunities employer. We are committed to creating a diverse and inclusive workplace where everyone feels valued, respected, and supported. We welcome applications from people of all backgrounds, regardless of age, gender identity, sexual orientation, disability, neurodivergence, ethnicity, religion or belief, or any other characteristic protected by law.

We actively encourage neurodivergent candidates and individuals with disabilities to apply. If you require any reasonable adjustments during the application or interview process, please let us know. We are committed to providing an accessible and supportive recruitment experience.