Sourcing Specialist, Knitwear & Accessories

About the role

Technical Knitwear Sourcing & Development Own sourcing execution for knitwear apparel and accessories. Provide technical guidance on knit feasibility, yarns, constructions, gauges, and performance. Partner with Design and Product Development to ensure styles are manufacturable and aligned with vendor capabilities. Advise on construction choices impacting cost, quality, and lead time. Vendor Management & Commercial Ownership Manage and develop relationships with external vendors and mills. Lead cost negotiations, validate cost breakdowns, and drive cost efficiencies. Support vendor onboarding, capacity planning, and seasonal allocations. Track and manage vendor performance against delivery, quality, and cost KPIs. Raw Material Procurement Place and track yarn, trim, and material orders, ensuring lead times, MOQs, and quality standards are met. Manage lab dip, strike ‑ off , and bulk material approvals. Proactively mitigate risks related to delays, shortages, or material issues. Production Follow ‑ up & Delivery Track production from PO placement through ex ‑ factory shipment. Identify risks early and drive corrective actions to protect delivery timelines. Ensure compliance with packaging, labeling, and shipping requirements. Testing, Quality & Compliance Ensure knitwear and accessory testing is planned and completed per brand and regulatory standards. Manage knitwear ‑ specific quality risks and support issue resolution with vendors. Partner with QA and Compliance on test reviews, corrective actions, and retesting if needed. Care Instructions & Labeling Ensure care instructions and labeling are accurate , compliant, and aligned with garment performance. Identify and mitigate risks related to care claims and fiber composition accuracy Data, Systems & Process Improvement Maintain accurate BOMs, costings, and production data in PLM/ERP systems. Use Excel and automation tools to streamline reporting and sourcing processes. Drive continuous process improvements through documentation, templates, and standard ways of working. About You: Bachelor's degree in Textile Engineering, Apparel Design & Technology, Fashion Engineering or a related field. A solid academic foundation in garment construction, textile science and product development principles is expected. 3-5 years of experience in apparel product development, engineering or technical design, preferably with a focus on outerwear . Deep understanding of garment construction techniques , manufacturing processes and Labor Minutes Calculation . Extensive experience in development and manufacturing as well as working with external factories and vendors. Experience within patterns, grading and fits. Understanding of product testing, test methods and approval processes (labelling, wash care). Knowledge of construction and manufacturing methods. In depth understanding in technical m aterials, woven and knit. Knowledge of product safety and risk assessment across multiple product categories . PLM experience, MS Office skills. Deep understanding of manufacturing processes, industriali s ation methods and large ‑ scale production operations. Skilled in costing, margin engineering and supply chain logistics . Exceptional problem ‑ solving skills and the ability to influence internal teams and external suppliers. What's in it For You? A company built on Canadian roots and heritage Your work is recognized with a comprehensive and competitive Total Rewards Program Oppor