Associate Merchandiser

Job Summary JOB DESCRIPTION The Associate Merchandiser is the liaison between the HQ based team and the factories, managing Product development, Cost negotiation, Vendor source and relationship, Risk mitigation and stakeholder communications. They work in conjunction with Engineering & QA & Order Execution team to support the US based team and factory needs.

Key Responsibilities

• Product Development
• Identify potential vendors by pre-screening their production capacity, capabilities and business expectations.
• Execute buying trip from A-Z including pre-trip, itinerary set up, cost negotiation to finalization to ensure the trip objectives are fully achieved
• Negotiate price based on an in-depth understanding of product and components.
• Ensure all supplier quotations and samples are completed on a timely basis for appropriate decision making to meet objectives.
• Identify testing and production issues upfront and involve Quality Assurance teams to resolve.
• Coordinate with order execution team before initial PO placement
• Vendor Sourcing & Relationships
• Assist to maintains strong relationships with local vendors to ensure production process and output – such as capacity, sample submissions, revisions, negotiations, monitor supplier performance to ensure it meets or exceeds company standards and expectations.
• Ensures vendors are coached on standard procedures and system.
• Market Intelligence
• Initiate market research and investigates product trends.
• Acknowledge and discuss market intelligence with Merchandiser Manager s.
• Prepare monthly Reports to keep Merchandiser Manager well informed of status of all upcoming programs.

Desirable Qualifications & Competencies

• Minimum 2-4 years of practical experience in products
• Excellent English skills in reading and writing
• Knowledge of sourcing and product development
• Basic knowledge of manufacturing process
• Apply job knowledge and expertise to solve business problems
• Initiate and take personal responsibility for frequent clear, and open communication
• Appropriately prioritize work based on short-term and long-term requirements
• Demonstrates initiative and acts with a sense of urgency.