Manager, Color

As a Manager, Color at SanMar, you will be responsible for ensuring the quality and consistency of color across all product categories. This includes managing a team of colorists, developing color processes and protocols, collaborating with cross-functional teams, and utilizing technology to improve color management. You will also act as the authoritative figure on color decisions within the organization.

Candidates for the Manager, Color position at SanMar should have a Bachelor's Degree in a related field such as Textiles or Merchandising, alongside 7-9 years of relevant experience in apparel color management. Proficiency with spectrophotometers and color software, along with excellent communication skills, are also essential for this role.

The work environment for the Manager, Color at SanMar is a hybrid model, requiring in-office attendance from Tuesday to Thursday in Issaquah, WA. The office is moderately quiet, and employees will often collaborate closely with cross-functional teams. The position may also involve international travel for sourcing and quality assurance.

SanMar offers a competitive salary range of $105,000 to $150,000 annually for the Manager, Color position, along with an annual performance bonus of up to 15%. Additional benefits include comprehensive medical, dental, and vision coverage, a 401k plan, paid time off, maternity and paternity leave, and even pet insurance.

SanMar places a strong emphasis on professional development for the Manager, Color role. You will be responsible for conducting training activities for your team, attending industry events to stay updated, and continuously influencing color strategies across various departments to enhance the overall quality of the product.

When answering this question, share specific examples from your previous roles that demonstrate your experience in managing color processes, collaborating with cross-functional teams, and utilizing technology to enhance color quality and consistency. Highlight your proficiency with color software and any successful projects you led.

Discuss your approach to maintaining color accuracy and consistency, emphasizing the importance of established color standards, effective communication with cross-functional teams, and your experience with tools like spectrophotometers to measure color precision.

When discussing challenges, outline a specific situation where you faced a color management issue. Explain how you assessed the problem, the steps you took to resolve it, and how the outcome improved the overall quality and integrity of the product.

Articulate your understanding of how technology supports color management. Discuss any software or systems you have used to gather and analyze color data, manage workflows, and improve decision-making throughout the product lifecycle.

Emphasize your experience in building partnerships across various teams such as Design and Development. Discuss how you communicate color goals, ensure accountability, and encourage team members to embrace color strategies that align with the organization's objectives.

Describe the specific training programs or activities you've initiated to enhance your team's understanding and skills in color management. Include any methods you've used to assess and develop color perception skills.

Mention the industry events or associations you participate in, along with any resources such as journals or online platforms. Show your commitment to staying informed about the latest color trends and technologies affecting the apparel industry.

Share your past experiences with international travel related to color sourcing or quality control. Discuss how these trips contributed to enhancing product quality and consistency, and how you effectively communicated findings back to your teams.

Give a detailed example of a project where you successfully managed multiple priorities. Highlight your organizational skills and ability to work under pressure while maintaining attention to detail.

Express your passion for color management and your enthusiasm for contributing to SanMar's vision. Tie in your skills and experiences with the company's commitment to quality and innovation in the apparel industry.