Materials Technical Coordinator (Footwear, Leather)

GENERAL FUNCTION

Reporting to the Materials Manager, the Materials Technical Coordinator supports day-to-day execution of leather material technical activities across development and production. This role applies solid technical knowledge of leather materials to ensure materials meet defined quality, performance, cost, and delivery requirements. The position works closely with internal partners and T2 suppliers under established frameworks and direction, contributing to smooth material flow and seasonal readiness.

This role is primarily hands-on and execution-focused, providing technical support, coordination, and follow-through rather than setting strategy or owning supplier direction.

PRIMARY DUTIES

1. Manage and maintain all leather master color swatches, including setup, tracking, updates, and distribution to relevant teams and vendors.
2. Provide technical support on leather types, treatments, finishing processes, performance requirements, and application guidance based on established standards and specifications.
3. Work closely with Quality, Development, and Sourcing teams to support resolution of material-related technical issues to ensure materials meet brand standards.
4. Work seasonal leather pricing to negotiate with T2 suppliers by following pricing guidance.
5. Maintain strong supplier partnerships to support seasonal innovation, capacity planning, and sustainability initiatives.
6. Collaborate closely with Product Creation, Sourcing, QA/QC, and Costing teams to drive timelines and ensure seamless material flow.
7. Audit leather suppliers for new supplier on aboard, risk assessment for T2 on time delivery.
8. Recommend cost‑saving opportunities and material alternatives without compromising quality/performance and escalate recommendations for review.
9. Participate in continuous improvement initiatives to enhance material process efficiency and reduce execution risk.
10. Performs other duties as required/assigned by manager.

KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS AND ABILITIES REQUIRED

1. Approximately 2–4 years of leather material experience in the footwear or leather tannery.
2. Hands on technical understanding of leather production processes, finishing types, and quality standards.
3. Familiar with material testing standards (e.g., SATRA); formal certification is a plus but not required.
4. Ability to read and interpret test results and escalate issues with clear technical context.
5. Ability to support negotiation support skills (pricing, alternatives, technical trade‑offs).
6. Detail‑oriented with strong organizational and data‑tracking abilities.
7. Proficiency in English and strong documentation/reporting skills.

WORKING CONDITIONS

1. Based at one of the Wolverine offices situated in factory environment (as assigned).
2. Approx 20% of time requires travel to local factories/suppliers/material fairs as needed.