5 fashion careers that are recruiting in 2026
Posted on 30/01/2026
Between sustainable fashion, technological innovations, new consumer behaviors and growing ethical expectations, careers in the fashion industry are evolving rapidly. In 2026, certain roles stand out for their strong recruitment potential, particularly in the fields of responsible fashion and new technologies.
Here are five promising careers in the fashion industry.
1. Materials and Textile Innovation Manager
Fashion brands are increasingly investing in innovative materials: recycled textiles, bio-based fibers, leather alternatives, and new weaving technologies. The materials and textile innovation manager is responsible for monitoring trends, testing solutions, and integrating these new materials into collections.
They work closely with suppliers, creative teams, and research laboratories to ensure the technical feasibility, quality, and environmental compliance of the materials used.
This profile is highly sought after by luxury houses, premium brands, and companies focused on textile Research & Development.
2. Sustainability Manager
The ecological transition has become a strategic challenge for fashion brands. The sustainability manager oversees initiatives related to reducing environmental impact, social ethics, and transparency across production chains.
They work on concrete issues such as selecting sustainable materials, traceability, eco-design, and compliance with environmental standards. This role requires close collaboration with creative, production, and communication teams to ensure the consistency of the brand’s sustainability strategy.
This position is particularly sought after by committed brands, international groups, and labels undergoing a transition toward more responsible fashion.
3. Sustainable-Oriented Fashion Product Manager
The role of product manager is evolving significantly with the integration of sustainability challenges. In 2026, product managers specializing in eco-design are in high demand. They oversee the development of collections while integrating environmental criteria from the design phase onward.
This professional analyzes trends, coordinates creative and technical teams, and ensures compliance with cost, timeline, and environmental impact constraints. They must also understand consumer expectations regarding transparency and responsibility.
This role is central for brands seeking to combine creativity, commercial performance, and sustainable commitment.
4. Fashion Data Analyst
Data has become a key lever in the fashion industry. The fashion data analyst analyzes data related to sales, purchasing behavior, inventory, and trends in order to optimize brands’ strategic decisions.
Through data analysis, this professional helps better anticipate demand, limit overproduction, and improve collection profitability. This role also contributes to a more responsible approach by helping reduce waste and adjust production volumes.
Highly sought after by digital brands, e-commerce platforms, and major fashion groups, this hybrid profile combining fashion, business, and data expertise is experiencing strong growth.
5. Responsible Fashion Supply Chain Manager
The supply chain is at the heart of today’s fashion challenges. This professional, specialized in responsible fashion, optimizes production and distribution flows while integrating social and environmental criteria.
They work on supplier selection, logistics, carbon footprint reduction, and process transparency. Their objective is to make the supply chain more efficient, ethical, and sustainable, while meeting economic requirements.
This role is recruiting strongly, particularly within committed brands, international groups, and companies seeking to transform their production models.
Training for the Future Careers of Fashion
Fashion careers are evolving rapidly and now require skills that are both creative, managerial, and technological, capable of addressing the challenges of sustainable fashion, innovation, and the transformation of business models.
IFA Paris supports students in preparing for these new careers through its programs in Fashion Design and Fashion Business & Marketing, closely aligned with the current challenges of the industry.
The school also offers Postgraduate Programs, designed for fashion enthusiasts who wish to deepen their expertise. Thanks to a wide range of specializations covering many fashion careers, IFA Paris provides comprehensive training tailored to diverse profiles and professional ambitions, both in France and internationally.
Do you want to build a career in an innovative, responsible, and international industry? The fashion of tomorrow is being shaped today.


