Fabric Merchandiser

Company Overview

The Pant Project is a rapidly growing menswear brand that is building a category-defining presence across D2C platforms, marketplaces, and offline retail. Known for strong product-market fit, operational excellence, and relentless execution, the company is committed to innovation and quality in the apparel industry.

Job Summary

The Fabric Merchandiser is responsible for sourcing, developing, and managing fabrics across various product categories. This role ensures the availability of high-quality fabrics that meet cost, timing, and quality standards, contributing to the brand’s product excellence and operational efficiency. The position requires deep expertise in fabric types, vendor management, and collaboration with design and production teams.

Responsibilities

• Follow up on in-house fabric processes to ensure smooth production flow.
• Source fabrics (woven, knit, denim, sustainable textiles, etc.) based on design and seasonal requirements.
• Develop new fabric options aligned with market trends and brand positioning.
• Collaborate closely with mills and suppliers for fabric innovations, sampling, and development.
• Build and maintain strong relationships with domestic and international fabric mills and suppliers.
• Negotiate pricing, minimum order quantities (MOQs), lead times, and payment terms.
• Evaluate vendor performance regarding quality, delivery, and compliance.
• Work on fabric costing and consumption planning; optimize fabric usage to reduce wastage.
• Coordinate fabric sampling, lab dips, and ensure timely approvals of strike-offs and bulk fabric.
• Ensure on-time fabric delivery to production units; track fabric status from order to delivery.
• Monitor fabric quality standards and testing (shrinkage, color fastness, pilling, etc.).
• Stay updated on global fabric trends, innovations, and sustainability practices.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Textile Engineering, Fashion Technology, or Apparel Merchandising.
• 10+ years of experience in fabric merchandising for apparel brands or export houses.
• Extensive experience working with global suppliers and mills.
• Strong negotiation, analytical, and vendor management skills.
• Deep knowledge of woven fabrics (cotton, linen, polyester blends).
• Expertise in knit fabrics (jersey, rib, interlock, fleece).
• Familiarity with denim, washes, and sustainable/recycled fabrics.
• Understanding of fabric construction, GSM, yarn count, weave/knit structures.
• Knowledge of dyeing, printing, and finishing processes.

Preferred Skills

• Exposure to sustainable fabric sourcing practices.
• Strong understanding of fabric testing standards and quality assurance.
• Excellent communication and relationship-building skills.
• Ability to analyze market trends and incorporate innovations.
• Experience in cost optimization and margin management.

Experience

• Over 10 years of relevant experience in fabric merchandising within the apparel industry.
• Proven track record working with international suppliers and mills.
• Experience in sustainable fabric sourcing is a plus.

Environment

This role is based in Mumbai and involves working in a dynamic, fast-paced environment. The position requires close coordination with design, production, and supply chain teams. The candidate should be comfortable managing multiple vendor relationships and overseeing fabric development and procurement processes.

Salary

Not specified

GrowthOpportunities

Potential career growth into senior merchandising, supply chain management, or product development roles within the company.

Benefits

Not specified

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Application Instructions:
Send your CV and a brief note on your experience to talent@pantproject.com. Please include the role title "Fabric Merchandiser – Bangalore" in your subject line.