Merchandiser - Decoration Accessories

JOB SUMMARY:

The Merchandiser is the liaison between the San Francisco based team and the factories, managing seasonal developments, vendor relations, Time & Action (T&A) and key communications. They work in conjunction with WSI cross departments to support the US based team and factory needs.

JOB RESPONSIBILITIES & DUTIES

1. Product Development: 

• Fully versed on Time & Action (T&A) master calendar and all key dates for product development samples.

• Communicate target costs and sample ETD to vendors and follow up on weekly progress. 

• Work together with cross functions on new developments, making sure with vendors on prices are according to WSI Standards.

• Communicate program approval to vendors and ensure that the factory has the correct approved sample before they go into production.

• Daily update & track product development status, testing status, photo sample status, Master Control Sample (MCS) and sample tracking and perform follow ups to make sure everything runs as planned. Update Sourcing & Product Development Team with the tracking details.

• Working with cross functions & vendors to provide correct information to Product Information Specialist (Vendor Fact Sheet - VFS, hangtags, labels, Assembly Instruction - AI and other information needed).

• Troubleshoot any issues that come up in production and work with factory to ensure on-time delivery and notify Merchandise Manager if there are any major delays. 

• Monitoring drop/approval rate for each development seasons.

• Prepare all documents and samples for in country product development trips

• Arrange Pre-Production Meeting (PPM) schedule across factories.

• Monitor Testing of products with factories and protocol adherence. 

1. Vendor relations and capacity management

• Facilitate onboarding of new vendors.

• Create strong relationships with all our key vendors.

• Stay on top of factory issues (strikes, holidays, etc) and report to line manager as needed.

• Monitor vendor performance (scorecard) and work closely with vendors to improve the grading if needed.

1. Sourcing

• New products /factories via trade shows and market contacts.  

• Understand the capabilities of all our factories.

• If there is any delay, troubleshoot the problem and clearly communicate with SF team about all potential/at risk of delay.

• Keep record of all cost changes/ Minimum of Quantity (MOQ) changes over the year across factories.

EDUCATION & EXPERIENCE:

• Bachelor’s degree 

• Minimum 3 years of practical experience in Decoration Accessories products.

• Knowledge of sourcing and product development.

• Basic knowledge of manufacturing process in Decoration Accessories area.

COMPETENCIES & TECHNICAL SKILLS: 

• Communication: Clear and effective verbal and written communication, including presentations.

• Negotiation & Costing: Ability to manage costing discussions and negotiate with stakeholders.

• Vendor Management: Skilled in factory evaluation and vendor relationship management.

• Organizational Skills: Strong prioritization, attention to detail, and accuracy in execution.

• Team Collaboration: Ability to work effectively within a team and build positive interpersonal relationships.

• Service Orientation: Demonstrates a proactive, customer-focused mindset.

• Technical Proficiency: Advanced computer skills, including spreadsheets, word processing, and email systems.

• Language Proficiency: Proficient in English; Chinese is a plus. 

• Mindset & Drive: Strong sense of urgency, prioritization, and ability to deliver under pressure.