Manager, Materials Operations

PURPOSE

• Key player in driving our vision to be the Most Agile, Most Competitive, Most Digitalized & Cleanest Supply Base in the industry. Lead operational activity and drive performance at assigned T2s.
• Support material development and product commercialization to ensure adidas objectives are met. Develop, coach, and grow reporting team members.

 

KEY RESPONSIBILITIES

• Manage T2 operations and supplier performance across development, commercialization, and production.
• Monitor supplier performance, identify risks, and coordinate mitigation and improvement plans.
• Implement processes and policies at assigned T2s; onboard new suppliers; ensure compliance.
• Ensure effective execution of company quality standards and promote best‑practice sharing.
• Oversee accurate, high‑quality, and timely prototype sample and bulk order fulfillment.
• Coordinate counter‑development activities at assigned T2s.
• Drive cross‑functional, supply chain–oriented initiatives as directed by leadership.
• Build strong partnerships by regularly gathering feedback from T2s; escalate internal improvement opportunities.
• Ensure full compliance with adidas Responsible Sourcing & Purchasing Policy, adidas standards, and legal requirements.
• Role‑model brand values and foster a culture of Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion.
• Develop and coach team members, identify and grow key talent, and build succession plans.

 

KEY RELATIONSHIPS

• Global Sourcing (Sourcing Operations, Costing, Materials, Engineering & Manufacturing Innovation, Allocation & Planning, Quality)
• Global Operations (Sustainability Strategy, Global Strategy & Programs, Global Product Supply, Product Operations, Supply Chain Management)
• Global Legal (Social & Environmental Affairs)
• Product Operations (Business Unit Operations)
• External partners: T2 & T3 leadership, government bodies, NGOs

 

KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS & ABILITIES

• Strong communication and cross‑functional collaboration skills.
• Solid people leadership, influencing, and negotiation capabilities.
• Strong problem‑solving and analytical abilities; strong business acumen.
• Technically and functionally sound team player with a proven record of delivering results.
• Growth mindset with ability to challenge the status quo.
• Proficient in Microsoft Office; analytics tools and ERP/MRP systems are a plus.
• Fluent in English; Mandarin, Vietnamese, Bahasa, or German is an advantage.

 

REQUISITE EDUCATION & EXPERIENCE

• University degree in Manufacturing, Industrial Engineering, Textile Technology, or Business Management preferred.
• 3–5 years of relevant work experience; related industry preferred.
• Experience in soft goods development or production is an advantage.