Job Description: Merchandiser / Product Development
Location: Piscataway, NJ
Department: Product Development / Merchandising
Travel Required: Yes – International
Position Summary
We are seeking a dynamic and detail-oriented Merchandiser/Product Development Specialist to join our team at a leading sports licensing company. This role is pivotal in driving the development and execution of innovative product lines that resonate with market trends and consumer demand. The ideal candidate will collaborate cross-functionally with design, pricing, purchasing, and production teams, while maintaining daily communication with overseas factories to ensure timely sample development and product readiness for launch.
Key Responsibilities
· Conduct market research and competitive analysis to identify trends and opportunities.
· Plan and develop seasonal product lines in alignment with brand strategy and licensing requirements.
· Collaborate with design teams to ensure product concepts meet market needs and brand standards.
· Work closely with pricing, purchasing, and production departments to ensure cost-effective and timely product execution.
· Coordinate with design and marketing teams to finalize sales samples, catalogs, and collateral for product launches.
· Maintain daily communication with overseas factories regarding sample requests, revisions, and approvals.
· Ensure all product samples are received, reviewed, and approved ahead of launch timelines.
· Oversee the finalization of product lines including final samples, sales samples, catalogs, and marketing collateral.
· Continuously monitor market and competitor activity to develop new product ideas and enhancements.
· Propose and execute innovative concepts that differentiate the brand in the marketplace.
· Prepare sales teams for customer meetings with product knowledge, samples, and presentation materials.
· Assist in developing sales tools and training materials.
· Travel to overseas factories to build relationships, understand production processes, and identify opportunities to improve speed and efficiency.
Qualifications
· Bachelor’s degree in Merchandising, Product Development, Marketing, or related field.
· Domestic and international travel required, up to 15%
· Able to be part of a community and work in a team environment
· Proficiency in the use of Windows and Microsoft Office Applications; Word, Excel, Outlook
Preferred Skills
· Passion for sports and licensed merchandise.
· Strong analytical skills and attention to detail.
· Ability to manage multiple projects and deadlines.
· Creative thinker with a proactive approach to problem-solving.
Job Type: Full-time
Pay: From $44,000.00 per year
Benefits:
- 401(k)
- 401(k) matching
- Dental insurance
- Employee discount
- Health insurance
- Paid time off
- Vision insurance
Education:
Ability to Commute:
- Piscataway, NJ 08854 (Required)
Ability to Relocate:
- Piscataway, NJ 08854: Relocate before starting work (Required)
Work Location: In person
