Senior Specialist - QA, Handbags

About Us

Centric Brands is a leading lifestyle brand collective that designs, sources, markets and sells high quality products in multiple segments, including women’s, men’s and kid’s apparel, accessories, entertainment, and beauty. Centric Brands is focused on our customers and our brands that will drive the company’s future growth. We are defined by innovation as we seize new opportunities and thrive in an environment informed by creativity and thinking that is both analytical and outside the box. Centric Brands reflects a team built on respect, for others and for the hard work it takes to achieve our goals and build our bright future together.

Specific Responsibilities Would Include

Lead quality assurance for handbag production at assigned vendors, from pre-production through final shipment, to ensure consistent product quality, compliance and on-time delivery. Act as the senior technical reference for handbag quality within the local QA team.

• Own end-to-end quality for assigned handbag vendors, from development and pre-production through final shipment, in line with Centric SOPs and customer requirements.
• Conduct product risk assessments and lead PPMs with factory teams, reviewing approved samples, tech packs, materials, hardware and construction before bulk production.
• Review development, PP and TOP samples and give technical feedback on construction, workmanship and functionality.
• Perform and oversee inline and final (AQL) inspections; issue accurate inspection reports on time and escalate critical quality issues promptly.
• Verify materials and components (PU/PVC/leather, nylon, canvas, linings, zippers, hardware and plating, edge paint, prints and embossing) against standards and lab testing requirements.
• Follow up production status and T&A (WIP) regularly; align inspection schedules with factory production plans to protect delivery.
• Lead root cause analysis on quality issues and customer returns; drive CAP implementation and verify its effectiveness.
• Train and coach vendor QC teams on customer requirements and quality standards, and drive continuous quality improvement in factories.
• Mentor and support junior QA/QC staff, review their reports and ensure consistent inspection standards across the team.
• Share new requirements, quality alerts and case studies with factories and internal teams.
• Collaborate with Merchandising, Product Development and other related parties to resolve quality issues and support on-time delivery.
• Monitor factory daily operations, including compliance issues, and report concerns to the QA/QC Manager.
• Monitor the factory’s internal quality control system, including sharp tool control, needle/metal detection and product safety requirements.

Our Best Fit Candidate Would Have

• At least 5 years’ QA/QC experience in handbags, leather goods or accessories manufacturing, including at least 2 years in a senior or lead role.
• Strong technical knowledge of handbag construction, patterns, materials (genuine/PU leather, PVC, nylon, canvas), trims and hardware, edge finishing, printing and embossing techniques.
• In-depth knowledge of handbag manufacturing processes (cutting, skiving, stitching, edge painting, assembly, finishing) and factory quality control systems.
• Expert in AQL inspection, defect classification, and physical, chemical and product safety testing requirements.
• Proven track record in root cause analysis, corrective action and vendor quality improvement.
• Experience working with US brands or retail customers is preferred.
• Able to work independently, and to lead and coach others.
• Bachelor’s degree or technical college diploma.
• Good written and spoken English for reports and communication with internal and external stakeholders.
• Proficient in Microsoft Office (Excel, Outlook, PowerPoint).

Behavioral Competencies:

• Initiative
• Ownership
• Communication
• Collaboration
• Leadership and Coaching
• Conflict Management and Problem Solving

Language Proficiency:

Fluent in: English, (Mandarin is a plus)

Specific Working Conditions

Frequency of Travel: Regular factory visits within Cambodia; regional travel as required.