Fabric Specialist (Textile)

As a Fabric Specialist at Rovo, you’ll play a key role in managing our material development process from concept to production. You’ll ensure that all fabrics meet our standards for quality, performance, and sustainability while supporting cross-functional teams in development and production phases.

Fabric Sourcing & Development

• Research, identify, and source new fabrics and trims aligned with brand aesthetic, performance, and sustainability objectives.
• Collaborate with produce developers to translate creative concepts into feasible fabric selections.
• Partner with mills and suppliers to develop exclusive materials, custom finishes, or sustainable alternatives.
• Maintain a strong understanding of global textile innovations, fiber technologies, and market trends.
   

 Fabric Testing, Quality & Technical Problem Solving

• Oversee all fabric testing and performance evaluations, including shrinkage,  colorfastness, abrasion resistance, pilling, and tensile strength.
• Troubleshoot and resolve fabric-related technical issues throughout the development and production process - such as color variation, print defects, or performance  inconsistencies.
• Apply technical expertise to improve material construction, finishing, and processing methods.
• Collaborate with mills to refine fabric hand-feel, appearance, and performance  outcomes.
• Ensure all fabrics comply with internal standards, safety regulations, and sustainability certifications such as Bluesign®, OEKO-TEX®, and REPREVE®.

 Supplier & Vendor Management

• Build and maintain strong relationships with mills, dye houses, and fabric suppliers.
• Negotiate prices, minimums, and lead times to meet budget and production goals.
• Evaluate and track supplier performance regarding quality, reliability, and 
   sustainability commitment.
   

Material Library & Documentation

• Manage and organize the physical and digital fabric library with accurate labeling and technical data.
• Maintain test reports, certifications, and seasonal usage records.
• Assist design and development teams with fabric presentations during seasonal 
   reviews.
   

Cross-Functional Collaboration

• Work closely with R&D, product development, and production teams to ensure  seamless material handover from concept to bulk production.
• Provide technical guidance during product fit sessions, wash trials, and production troubleshooting.
• Support company sustainability and circularity initiatives through responsible material choices and innovation.

Must-Have

• Minimum 3 years of experience in fabric development, textile sourcing, or technical product development.
• Strong understanding of fiber properties, fabric construction, dyeing, and finishing processes.
• Proven experience working with international mills and textile suppliers.
• Excellent organizational, analytical, and problem-solving skills.
• Strong communication and negotiation abilities.
• Proficiency in English (written and spoken).
   

Nice-to-Have

• Knowledge of textile sustainability standards and certifications (e.g., GOTS, OEKO-TEX, Bluesign).
• Experience supporting sustainability or circularity projects in the textile industry.
• Familiarity with PLM systems or fabric database management tools.
• Additional language skills (Portuguese, Spanish, or Italian).

• Health insurance coverage.
• Flexible work schedules that promote work-life balance. 
• Generous allocation of 26 vacation days per year.
• Collaborative and supportive work environment.
• Opportunity for professional growth and development.
• Modern and well-equipped office space in a convenient location.

As one of the leading agencies in Portugal, our reputation for excellence is a testament to our philosophy of pushing the boundaries in textile sourcing and production.

Over the years, we have brought our expertise and industry insight to 150+ apparel, fashion, and luxury clients, working exclusively with factories that share our ethos of transparency, quality, and environmental responsibility.

We believe that exceptional products require not only a deep understanding of the industry, but also an unwavering dedication to constant improvement and innovation. That's why we approach every project by leveraging our extensive network of suppliers to explore and adopt new trends in manufacturing, technology, and sustainability.

We are  committed to minimising our environmental  impact, supporting ethical practices,  and promoting positive social  change to create a more inspiring future for all.