Design Raw Material Manager

About This Opportunity

Ashley Furniture is seeking an experienced Design Raw Material Manager to lead our raw materials strategy across all Ashley locations. This role offers the perfect blend of strategic sourcing, vendor management, and team leadership while working with premium fabrics, leathers, and specialty materials that define our furniture collections.

What You'll Do

Strategic Raw Material Management

• Plan, direct, and monitor activities for new and existing raw materials including fabrics, leathers, and outdoor furniture materials
• Manage raw material specifications and pricing information with overseas vendors across all divisions
• Negotiate pricing, lead times, payment terms, and minimum order quantities to optimize value
• Oversee the complete product lifecycle from sampling through production

Product Development & Quality Assurance

• Initiate and manage special development projects with international sourcing teams
• Coordinate sample manufacturing and guide products through the sampling and go process
• Ensure materials pass rigorous testing standards before master standard distribution
• Select specialty trims and fringe materials for upholstery items
• Support Research & Development team with material availability for market samples

Data Management & Documentation

• Maintain comprehensive records including New Product Information Sheets (NPIS), price lists, sample development spreadsheets, and lab testing records
• Enter pricing and specifications into prototype and product knowledge systems
• Manage master standard distribution and special request swatch distribution

Team Leadership & Development

• Lead and develop a team of 1-2 direct reports through coaching, mentoring, and performance management
• Make employment decisions including hiring, promotions, and performance improvement plans
• Conduct regular audits to ensure adherence to standard operating procedures
• Facilitate team growth through weekly meetings, training, and development opportunities

What We're Looking For

Required Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Business Administration, Interior Design, or related field (or equivalent work experience)
• 5+ years of experience in raw material buying and sourcing
• Strong negotiation skills with proven track record of achieving favorable terms
• Experience managing vendor relationships and international sourcing

Essential Skills & Leadership Qualities

• Leadership Excellence: Ability to effectively lead teams, promote collaboration, and drive results
• Communication: Strong interpersonal skills with ability to handle difficult customer and employee situations
• Problem-Solving: Advanced troubleshooting and analytical capabilities
• Professional Attitude: Positive demeanor that motivates others and promotes enthusiasm
• Technical Expertise: Knowledge of textile, leather, and furniture materials and testing standards

Key Competencies

• Experience with product lifecycle management and documentation systems
• Ability to select from multiple alternatives using professional judgment
• Strong organizational skills for managing complex projects and timelines
• Understanding of international sourcing and supply chain management

Why Ashley Furniture?

This role offers significant autonomy and decision-making authority while working with premium materials that shape our industry-leading furniture collections. You'll have the opportunity to build strategic vendor relationships, lead product innovation, and develop your team while contributing to one of the furniture industry's most respected brands.

Ready to Lead Our Material Innovation?

If you're an experienced sourcing professional with leadership capabilities and a passion for quality materials, we'd love to hear from you. Join Ashley Furniture and play a key role in defining the materials that furnish homes across America.

Apply today to advance your career in design and raw material management with an industry leader.

Ashley Furniture is an equal opportunity employer committed to workplace diversity and inclusion.