Technical Manager – Raw Material

SgT Group is a global leader in third-party quality management solutions specializing in textiles, apparel, footwear, and accessories. As part of the WORMS Safety Alliance and founded in 1990, SgT operates in over 23 countries and supports more than 200 international brands with inspection, auditing, product development, and lab testing services. With a diverse team of experts and a strong commitment to innovation and compliance, SgT ensures quality and safety at every stage of the supply chain—from raw materials to finished goods.

Role Summary

The Technical Manager – Raw Material serves as a senior expert for quality, SOP development, and auditing across all raw material stages at SgT. This role oversees inspection protocols, technical consistency, and collaborates closely with external labs, suppliers, and the finished product team to ensure global quality compliance.

Key Responsibilities

• Raw Material Inspection:

  Lead and optimize the full inspection process for textiles, leather, synthetics, and fibers. Define, monitor, and control material quality parameters (GSM, strength, color, etc.). Validate inspection reports and ensure consistency and accuracy for defect classification and scoring.

• SOP & Audit Framework:

  Develop, harmonize, and maintain internal SOPs based on customer requirements. Create technical audit checklists and act as the final authority for updates to raw material inspection procedures. Support digitalization of reference materials and integrate real-time SOP access for field teams.

• Supplier Technical Audits:

  Conduct audits of mills and suppliers, assess compliance with ISO 9001 and sustainability certifications (GOTS, OEKO-TEX, ZDHC). Analyze audit findings and lead root cause analysis and CAPA remediation plans.

• Training & Capability:

  Design and deliver technical training for inspectors and auditors. Manage competency evaluation and maintain up-to-date e-learning and “Train-the-Trainer” programs.

• Technical Support:

  Troubleshoot and support customer queries about raw material technical issues (shading, shrinkage, defects). Analyze complaints, issue root cause reports, and liaise with suppliers for corrective action.

• Compliance & Laboratory Coordination:

  Ensure compliance with global standards (REACH, CPSIA, OEKO-TEX). Oversee test validation, fibre labelling guidance, and maintain awareness on regulatory updates.

• Finished Product Support:

  Partner and share best practices with the Finished Product team to maintain high standards throughout the supply chain.

Skills & Qualifications

• Bachelor’s/Master’s in Textile Engineering/Technology.
• 12–15 years’ experience in raw material QA, inspection, or technical auditing for global brands/service providers.
• Strong expertise in technical standards (AATCC, ISO, ASTM, EN, GB, JIS), SOP creation, and audit frameworks.
• Excellent communication, report writing, and analytical skills; able to lead cross-functional collaboration.
• Proficient in digital reporting tools, MS Excel, PowerPoint, and learning platforms.
• Willingness to travel frequently for audits and training worldwide.