R&D Team Lead (Intimate) - China
My client is a leading global garment manufacturer with a strong reputation for innovation, quality, and speed-to-market in the intimate apparel and swimwear sectors. Partnering with top international brands, they combine advanced material expertise, cutting-edge technology, and consumer insight to deliver best-in-class products.
As part of their continued growth, they are seeking an experienced R&D Team Lead (Intimate) - China to drive product innovation and technical excellence across their portfolio, based in Guangdong, China.
Role Overview
As the R&D Team Lead, you will lead the development of innovative, high-performance intimate and swimwear products. You will oversee the end-to-end R&D process-from concept ideation to commercialization-ensuring alignment with market trends, customer requirements, and manufacturing capabilities.
You will collaborate closely with cross-functional teams including Design, Merchandising, Production, and external partners to bring technically advanced, commercially successful products to market.
Key Responsibilities
Product Innovation & Development
- Lead the development of new products in intimate apparel (bras, panties, shapewear) and swimwear
- Research and implement new materials, fabric technologies, trims, and construction techniques
- Drive innovation in fit, comfort, performance, and sustainability
R&D Strategy & Execution
- Define and execute R&D roadmap aligned with global market trends and customer needs
- Stay ahead of industry developments in fabric technology, bonding, seamless construction, and sustainable solutions
- Manage seasonal development pipelines and sample timelines
Technical Collaboration and Leadership
- Provide guidance in fit engineering, pattern development, and garment construction
- Solve complex technical challenges during development and pre-production
- Lead risk assessment and feasibility analysis for new product concepts
- Partner with global customers and internal teams to translate concepts into commercially viable products
- Work closely with sourcing, mills, and suppliers to develop exclusive materials and techniques
- Support customer presentations and innovation showcase
Job Requirements
- Bachelor's degree or above in Textiles, Garment Engineering, Fashion Design, or related field
- Minimum 8-10 years' experience in intimate wear or swimwear development
- Proven track record in R&D, product innovation, and technical development
- Strong knowledge of: Bra construction, fabric technologies (lace, knits, warp knits, performance fabrics), fit and pattern engineering
- Experience working with international brands is highly preferred
- Strong project management and problem-solving skills
- Communication skills in English and Mandarin Chinese are desired
What To Offer
- Newly Created Opportunity to work with leading global fashion and lifestyle brands
- Exposure to advanced technologies and innovation platforms
- Competitive compensation and career growth opportunities
- Dynamic, collaborative, and international working environment
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