**Role & Responsibilities:** Position Definition (Key Purpose of the Position) : As part of the **Global Materials Supply (GMS) Team** , The Development Engineer will execute **the GMS Apparel and Equipment development** activities that services **the brands and products** sourced through **Asia Sourcing Office in Asia** . The individual is responsible to manage and oversee the apparel and equipment **material development and pre-production** activities. The role needs to **operationally connect** with Brands, Sourcing, Suppliers, Quality and Responsible Sourcing & Sustainability organizations. Frequent **influential communication** to external partners and VF management are required. Key Result Areas: + Manage the development of **apparel and equipment materials** through the go to market calendar to ensure all milestones are timely met. + Act as the key liaison for **Product Development** in Timberland and Sourcing management within Asia region, apparel and equipment materials supply related topics. + Support **apparel and equipment material innovation** and capabilities through supplier research and partnership in collaboration with Brand Development and Innovation Teams. + Partner cross-functionally with VF Materials Labs, Sourcing and Quality team in managing all aspects of **material quality** from establishing guidelines to delivering product to factories. + Support Material Team by leading **resolution of quality issues** at factories and with vendors in collaboration with Sourcing and Quality teams. + Actively support **sustainable material** roadmaps through identification of supplier capabilities, capacities and innovative sustainable alternatives + Facilitate material **cost negotiation tactics** against set costing savings targets by utilizing fact-based methodology, and executing positive outcomes in supplier facing discussions **Competency Requirements:** Behavioral Competencies - (Please refer to VF guiding principles) + High EQ in working with cross function/cultural partners + Strong interpersonal and communication skills (oral and written) + Optimistic and dare to take calculated risks + Team player and the ability to work independently + Bold and creative thinking + Competent in managing relationships with suppliers and internal business partners + Able to work under pressure with multiple tasks simultaneously while meeting tight deadlines Functional Competencies – + Able to review materials and suggest alternative options for costing and technical specification purposes + Strong analytical and problem-solving skills + High understanding of textile related commodities (Cotton, Polyester, Nylon, etc.) + Textile material development experience. **Experience** Minimum Relevant Experience: Experience in Apparel, Equipment materials and/or Sourcing and Supply Chain organizations but not limited to. Nature of Work: Materials Sourcing **Academic Qualifications** Minimum Degree Held: Bachelor’s degree, or equivalent work experience Subject Expert In: Textile, Engineering, Supply Chain, but not limited to Certifications Required: N/A **Language Proficiency:** + Fluent in English **Specific Working Conditions** Frequency of Travel: Infrequent global travel Other Specific Working Conditions: N/A R-20250211-0002 VF Diversity Vision Statement VF is committed to creating an inclusive environment that welcomes and values the differences among all of our associates, customers, suppliers and the communities in which we live and conduct business. The continued success and growth of VF is enhanced through initiatives that promote diversity throughout VF around the world.VF is an equal employment opportunity/ affirmative action employer of minorities, females, protected veterans and the disabled. VF is committed to providing equal opportunities in employment, and treating our VF associates and VF applicants without discrimination on the basis of their race, color, gender, age, national origin, religion, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, marital status, citizenship, disability, protected veteran status, HIV/AIDS status, or any other legally protected factor.