Fashion Buyer & Product Development Specialist (Freelance)

At BKND, we are developing a new generation of garments designed to address the sensory needs of neurodivergent individuals. Our mission is to create products where design, textile innovation, and functionality work together to deliver an exceptional wearing experience. Our products are being developed for the U.S. market in collaboration with specialized manufacturing partners, primarily located in Central America and China. We are looking for professionals who want to join an exciting project from its earliest stages and actively contribute to building a brand with international ambitions. Position Overview We are looking for a Fashion Buyer & Product Development Specialist with experience in sourcing, procurement, and product development within the fashion and apparel industry. The successful candidate will be responsible for managing the purchasing and production process for our collections, working closely with the design team to transform product concepts into commercially viable, high-quality products. This is a 100% remote, freelance position, initially on a part-time basis, with an expected start date in October or November. The role involves daily communication with international suppliers and active participation in strategic decision-making related to product development and supply chain management. Key Responsibilities: - Manage the end-to-end sourcing and procurement process for fabrics, trims, and other product components. - Identify, evaluate, and develop relationships with new fabric suppliers and garment manufacturers. - Request and evaluate quotations, negotiate pricing, commercial terms, lead times, and minimum order quantities (MOQs). - Coordinate sample development and monitor prototypes through to final approval. - Oversee production timelines with manufacturing partners in Central America and China, ensuring all milestones and delivery deadlines are met. - Resolve production, quality, sourcing, and logistics issues as they arise. - Maintain regular communication with international suppliers to ensure the successful execution of each project. - Analyze production costs and identify opportunities to improve profitability without compromising product quality. - Source and develop new suppliers (supplier sourcing). - Prepare costing analyses and evaluate product margins. - Manage production planning and the collection critical path. - Analyze sell-in and sell-out performance. - Manage replenishment and repeat orders. - Support sales forecasting and demand planning. Requirements: - Minimum of 3 years of experience in buying, sourcing, procurement, or product development within the fashion industry. - Strong understanding of the complete garment development process, from material selection through to bulk production. - Experience working with international manufacturers, particularly in Asia and/or Latin America. - Excellent negotiation skills and the ability to manage multiple projects simultaneously. - Strong knowledge of fabrics, garment construction, and textile finishing processes. - Advanced proficiency in Microsoft Excel or Google Sheets for cost analysis and production tracking. - English proficiency at B2 level or above, both written and spoken, essential for daily communication with international suppliers. - Highly organized, analytical, proactive, and capable of working independently. Preferred Qualifications: - Experience working with manufacturers in Central America. - Knowledge of the U.S. fashion market. - Experience developing technical or performance fabrics. - Familiarity with textile certifications such as OEKO-TEX®, GOTS, and REACH. - Previous experience working with startups or emerging fashion brands. What We Offer - The opportunity to join an international fashion brand from its launch phase. - The chance to contribute to the development of innovative products with a strong social impact. - A 100% remote, flexible, and freelance working arrangement. - Direct involvement in product development and supply chain strategy. - A collaborative, fast-paced environment focused on innovation and continuous improvement. - Real opportunities for long-term professional growth as the company expands. If you are passionate about product development, enjoy negotiating with international suppliers, and want to help build an innovative fashion brand with global ambitions, we'd love to hear from you.