Merchandiser, Non Apparel (Accessories)

Position Summary

To support the successful transformation of the business in becoming a world-class sourcing organization by maintaining strong business relationships and executing business strategies at the operational level through core sourcing competencies.  To effectively fulfill the pre-production and production elements of an assigned product category.  To support the Senior Merchandiser and Manager in partnering with global counterparts to ensure that all business goals and objectives are met, including but not limited to AUC and on-time delivery targets.

Key Accountabilities:

• Support the execution of business strategies relating to the Company’s transformation initiatives
• Contribute data and suggestions toward capacity planning responsibilities for the assigned product category
• Execute pre-production and production tasks and escalate/rectify any issues in prompt and sound manner
• Support vendor and factory allocation and carry out all product approval milestones (Development Submits, Fit, PP, Color Management, Submit Tracking, Approval Status, Risk Escalation)
• Maintain close communication with vendors and US counterparts
• Adhere to T&A deadlines and contribute to on-time delivery targets
• Execute all assigned costing duties (including cost validation and breakdowns)
• Proactively monitor/update production WIP
• Carry out PO maintenance duties in an accurate and prompt manner

• Support Ad-Hoc tasks/projects as required

Education and Experience:

• 2 years of relevant experience in accessories development and/or production, specializing in both soft and hard goods (Soft goods: legwear, cold weather, woven scarf, belt, ties, hats etc.; Hand goods: Sunglasses & cases, backpacks, fashion bags, hair accessories, costume jewelry, etc.)
• Understanding of accessories design and development (children accessories preferred)
• Background in pre-production and production follow-up or equivalent (i.e. product development or product sampling)
• Exposure in vendor scorecarding and remedies development
• Experience in sample allocation, ordering & tracking, and product approvals
• Experience in first cost, cost negotiations, and bidding
• Familiarity of Product Safety/Technology standards for children’s products
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office applications (Word, Excel PowerPoint, and Outlook)
• Good command of both verbal and written English skills

Technical Skills:

• Proactive escalation approach to issues and risks
• Proactive review of production WIP to isolate and quantify production and delivery risk
• Strong adherence to T&A deadlines
• Understanding of cost components for negotiation
• Appreciation for detailed PO maintenance and data integrity in an ERP system
• Appreciation for detailed Cost Sheet breakdown, data integrity, and accuracy