An interview with Parisa Kianinasab
YKK Canada of Saint-Laurent, QC is a division of the Japanese multinational YKK. It is best known as a leader in the manufacture of zippers, but its product range includes many types of fasteners. ITS recently met up with YKK Canada’s R&D manager, Parisa Kianinasab, P.Eng., for an interview about her role at the company.
“As R&D Manager, I focus on developing innovative and sustainable fastening solutions that meet both performance and environmental requirements. My responsibilities include product development, technical support for our customers, and collaborating with global teams to ensure YKK’s products align with market demands and industry trends.”
In addition to leading the development of new products to align with customers’ expectations, regulations and performance requirements, Kianinasab also supports the manufacturing team after the products transition from R&D into production by ensuring that technical requirements are met throughout the process.
With a Master’s in Textile Engineering, she has worked throughout her career on products related to textiles in one way or another, whether it is on garment production, textile finishing or chemicals. The common thread has been product development, especially for performance materials and sustainability.
Parisal Kianinasab, Manager (R&D), YKK Canada.
“This background provided me with a broad understanding of different sectors within the textile industry, which ultimately led me to join YKK Canada as R&D Manager [in 2023],” Kianinasab says.
Zippers being a core product for YKK, Kianinasab spends a considerable portion of her time combining yarns, coatings, films and finishes to build into the product the required mix of performance, durability, and sustainability.
“One of the most significant changes is the growing emphasis on sustainability, recyclability, and reducing environmental impact,” she says. “There is also a greater focus on product durability and circular economy principles.”
To be an effective R&D manager, Kianinasab uses her creativity and innovation skills, but she says being adept at project management and problem-solving are also valuable skills. When conceiving new products, one has to consider the business impact as well, and knowledge of cost effectiveness, competitiveness and profitability ensure that new developments are successful commercially, not just technically. She has to consider regulatory compliance as well in developing new products.
“In addition, knowledge of sustainability trends, supply chain dynamics, and quality standards plays a key role in making informed decisions.”
As the head of a department, Kianinasab must exercise leadership, be adaptable and use effective communication skills. Being open to continuous learning and staying updated on industry innovations and new regulations also supports long-term development.
Finally, for the next generation, she advises that knowledge in polymers and chemicals will be beneficial assets for those willing to make a career in this industry. She sees its greatest potential in technical textiles and sustainable products.