Materials Specialist

We are looking for a Materials Specialist to support the delivery of FitFlop’s seasonal materials across our footwear collections. This is a hands-on, execution focused role, working closely with Design, Product Development and our global Materials and Sourcing teams.

You will play a key role in material selection, development follow up, approvals, testing and data management, ensuring materials meet FitFlop’s standards for quality, performance, cost and compliance. This role does not have direct people management responsibility but requires strong organisation, attention to detail and the confidence to work cross functionally.

The Responsibilities:

Seasonal Materials Support

• Support the seasonal materials process from brief through to development and production alignment, in line with critical path.

• Actional materials briefs and inspiration requests from Design and Product Development.

• Track material developments, lab dips, strike offs, colour approvals, and final sign off.

Materials Library and Data Management

• Maintain and update the materials library, material grid and associated systems (physical and digital).

• Ensure material information is accurate, up to date and aligned with Approved Vendor Lists (AVL).

• Support reporting on material status, risks and timelines.

Testing, Compliance, and Sustainability

• Coordinate material testing to ensure all materials meet FitFlop’s quality, performance and RSL requirements.

• Maintain clear records of test results, certifications and approvals.

• Support sustainability and traceability initiatives through accurate material data and documentation.

Cross Functional Collaboration

• Work closely with Design, Product Development, Costing and Operations teams to keep product development moving at pace.

• Communicate clearly on material status, risks and dependencies.

The Person:

• Experience in a materials, product development or technical role within footwear, apparel or accessories.

• Understanding of materials, colour, construction and performance requirements.

• Exposure to working with global suppliers or sourcing teams.

• Experience using PLM systems, materials databases or similar tools (preferred).

• Strong team player, with positive, can-do attitude.

• Highly organised, detail driven and comfortable managing multiple workstreams.

• Confident communicator, able to work cross functionally and with external partners.

• Proactive problem solver with a practical, hands-on mindset.

• Comfortable operating in a fast paced, seasonal environment.

• Degree in a relevant discipline (e.g. materials, textiles, product design) or equivalent industry experience.

The Benefits:

• 👟 Product Allowance

• ⏰ Hybrid and flexible working hours (3 days per week in the office)

• ☀️ Summer Fridays (6 ½ days in July and August on Fridays)

• 🎂 A day off for your Birthday

• 🌴 25 days holiday + Bank Holidays

• 🗺️ Work from anywhere for 2 weeks

• 🚼️ Workplace Nursery (salary sacrifice scheme to save money on your nursery fees)

• 💆‍♀️ Wellbeing Program – Retail Trust, Sanctus Coaching and Calm App

• 📚 Career development allowance (personal allowance to use on career development)

• 🏥 Private health care and or dental care (provided by AXA and DenPlan)

• 🤩 Socials organised by Wellbeing and Feel Good group

• ➡️ Check out our careers page to learn more!

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.