VRAI is one of the fastest growing digital-first direct-to-consumer brands. Modernizing diamond jewelry through exclusive use of sustainably created diamonds, VRAI has innovation, craftsmanship, and sustainability at the core of its products and values. A global business, VRAI has offices in Los Angeles, Shanghai, Copenhagen, and Dubai.
The Sourcing Manager is responsible for the researching and procurement of all stages of development for each of VRAI’s current and future projects. The role will manage all aspects of new and current vendor relations, multi-phase sample coordination, and serve as a liaison for Product Development, Marketing, and Art teams; combining the need for intensive understanding of process, product and ability to build strong internal and external cross functional partnerships.Responsibilities:
- Responsible for sourcing, development, costing and production for all collections.
- Work closely with the director of product development, production, marketing, art, and manufacturing teams.
- Research and procurement of new high end manufacturing vendors, bulk jewelry items/vendors, packaging supplies, retail display and presentation items, and specialty collaboration items.
- Discovery of new vendors utilizing VRAI’s sustainability standards in conjunction with preferred business practices.
- Vetting of potential new manufacturers and vendors for quality, price point, and timing of delivery.
- Collaborate with CAD designers, setters, and polishers on all technical aspects of creation of the final piece.
- Working with the art department to ensure brand adherence in new product development for packaging and jewelry displays.
- Drive strategic BOM (bill of material) reviews with internal teams- Develop roadmap pricing to components.
- Verifying quantity and pricing of orders received against purchase orders and working with vendors and accounting to resolve any discrepancies.
- Manage sample development plans, timing, and requests to ensure complete synergy between teams as well as budget adherence.
- Negotiate program pricing and delivery and take a forward thinking approach to pricing, offering cost competitive alternatives.
- Maintain a high level of industry knowledge regarding raw material pricing, international manufacturing, relevant product category introductions, and innovation and vendor management.
- Understand design aesthetic, category strategy, and brand positioning for all products.
- Maintain a working knowledge of all areas of production process across a variety of materials, techniques and products.
- Lead new vendor, exploratory materials, current product and new category sourcing and onboarding.
- Manage the end to end vendor relationship.
- Ensure ethical sourcing of all goods and supplies
Responsibilities:
- Bachelor’s degree or equivalent work experience
- 3+ years in high-end/luxury jewelry product development
- 5+ years’ experience in multi-category sourcing, or similar product development role; within the jewelry industry
- Knowledge of fine jewelry manufacturing techniques and practices
- Comprehensive knowledge of retail product development, technical design, and manufacturing processes; applied understanding of the international vendor community
- Deadline focused and highly organized; Not fazed by complexity, multiple timelines, and competing priorities
- Strong multi-tasking skills and ability to react quickly in a fast-paced environment
- Experience with Excel, Photoshop, InDesign, PLM experience a plus
- Experience developing, implementing and communicating new processes and tools
To find out more about VRAI check out:
vrai.comfacebook.com/vrai