While working as a recruiter for more than 25 years, in the Apparel, Fabric, Fiber, and Nonwoven Industries, I have noticed that at any point in time, there are always 3 positions that many companies are seeking to fill. Why are these positions the most sought after by companies? In order for business to be successful, in the Fabric, Fiber, and Nonwoven Industries, it is crucial to have the best talent in these roles.

1. Sales Management- All Companies want to be sure they have the absolute best talent working with their customers, and companies want to hire the person that knows their customers and products the best. Sales people with experience in the company’s client base, or sales people that have sold competing products are excellent candidates for Sales Management positions.

2. New Product Development (PD)- New niche markets where companies can grow market share are constantly being identified; the product development team must be able to deliver new products to the market in the shortest time possible. Companies look for PD talent that can effectively manage the project management process of developing new products. If a PD manager can obtain skills using PD management tools, like Stage Gate, then they will have a better opportunity to land a role in this area.

3. Quality Assurance and Process Improvement- In order to streamline processes, this person must improve the quality of the process for products and services, and reduce cycle time developing new products. The Quality of the product or service must continue to improve, or you will become redundant in today’s market.  Companies are seeking talent that can implement a lean manufacturing process at the shop floor level, people that can teach and lead kaizen events and kaizen philosophies. “Quality Systems” knowledge is very important for companies who are looking for Quality Assurance talent. Candidates who use Quality Processes such as ISO 9001, 14001, TS16949, etc., and Quality Systems certifications such as CQE and ASQ are extremely desirable among most companies.

The fact is that companies are seeking people in these areas at all levels of management, including VP, Director, or Manager. Candidates that have 85% or more of the skills to do the job are the ones that will be hired. There is a lot of activity in today’s job market, and companies are trying to find the “perfect match” for their job opening. It is important to gain specific knowledge and skills related to your field to make yourself stand out among others. If you can do that, then you are well on your way to achieving career success!

-Doug Coley

Coley Company
Coley Company is an executive search firm located in Greensboro, N.C. With more than 25 years of search experience, Coley Company places candidates within the Apparel, Fabric, Fiber, and Nonwoven industries. Working on both a retained and contingency basis, Coley Company, works only with the best companies.