Manager, Denim Wash Laundry & Wash Development

About the role

Kontoor Brands is a portfolio of three of the world's most iconic lifestyle, outdoor and workwear brands: Wrangler®, Lee® and Helly Hansen®. Kontoor Brands is a purpose-led organization focused on leveraging its global platform, strategic sourcing model and best-in-class supply chain to drive brand growth and deliver long- term value for its stakeholders. Job Posting: KONTOOR EXTERNAL WEBSITE - JOB POSTING Kontoor US, LLC: Manager, Denim Wash Laundry & Wash Development - Greensboro, North Carolina

Responsibilities

• Lead laundry operations team, using technical background to understand laundry operations and research current trends
• Create and execute physical wash prototype garments and new aesthetics critical to the development of the brand and the business
• Encourage team to explore new techniques and skill sets, create newness and showcase talent through product collections
• Maintain schedule for on time execution of experiments and aesthetic development
• Provide leadership, training, and technical guidance to laundry technicians, building their skills in wash processes, chemical handling, equipment usage, safety, and quality standards.
• Foster an open, inclusive, and innovative work environment that encourages ownership, creativity, and continuous improvement.
• Manage end-to-end wash development projects, ensuring on-time delivery, accuracy, and replication feasibility in bulk production.
• Partner with design and product development engineers to research and execute seasonal and non-seasonal wash collections that reflect market trends and creative direction.
• Experiment with advanced technologies such as ozone, laser, waterless enzyme treatments, and eco-friendly chemicals to develop sustainable and commercially viable finishes.
• Maintain accurate documentation of recipes, processes, timelines, and decisions; monthly updates, and annual reports for stakeholders.
• Set performance goals for associates, evaluate progress, and provide mentorship to support professional development and succession planning.
• Act as liaison with U.S. design teams and vendor partners across Asia and East Africa, ensuring creative concepts are executed accurately and efficiently.
• Support continuous innovation by eliminating hazardous practices (e.g., PP spray, chlorine use) and replacing them with sustainable alternatives.
• Strengthen and leverage business relationship with our design partners and product development teams to foster development growth in the Service Support Center (SSC) development laundry.
• Maintain an open, inclusive, and inspirational work environment that encourages ownership of the process.
• Lead and champion the established vision and direction of Denim Wash Development department.

Requirements

• 10 years hands-on experience designing and executing aesthetic and functional finishes on denim, utilizing vintage to modern techniques.
• 10 years of experience with dyes, chemicals, and industrial laundry equipment used in denim and garment finishing.
• 8 years of experience with product development or product creation within a denim or textile manufacturing environment.
• 2 years of supervisory experience managing production or technical teams in a denim or garment wash operation
• LOCATION: 1421 South Elm-Eugene Street, Greensboro, North Carolina 27406
• Why Kontoor Brands?
• At Kontoor, we offer a comprehensive benefit package to fit your lifestyle. Our benefits are crafted with the same care as our products.
• When our employees are healthy, secure, and well, they bring their best selves to work. Kontoor Brands supports you with a competitive benefits program that provides choice and flexibility to meet your and your family's needs - now and in the future. We offer resources to sup

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