Merchandiser Apparel

General Position Summary:
Driving the development process from the receipt of technical specifications (specs)s to commercialization for assigned products with an emphasis on quality product engineering and timely completion of all tasks, including sampling and buy ready in accordance with operational calendars. Driving analysis and validation of vendor cost information throughout the entire creation process. Ensure compliance to agreed standards. Negotiate with FGV as needed.
Primary Essential Functions/Responsibilities:
- Collaborate closely with the various stakeholders in US headquarters and locally: Product Development, Sourcing, Design, Merchandising, Quality Assurance, vendors, Mills and others to drive the development, sampling, costing, etc of assigned products.
- Manage the feasibility, completeness and clarity of specs by liaising closely with upstream partners in HQ (product development, etc)
- Review the specs with vendors in the context of intended use of product, cost expectations, material specs, manufacturability etc, and give feedback to HQ as appropriate.
- Lead the development process, ensuring that high quality prototypes are created which address desired function, aesthetics, cost and manufacturability, including checking for quality, measurement, fit and adherence to construction standards. Provide options and recommendations to make improvement in the sample process.
- Review, analyse and validate vendor cost information throughout the entire creation process. Ensure compliance to agreed cost standards and timelines.
- Negotiate with vendors for the best product cost to achieve the highest cost margin.
- Ensure all development samples (prototypes, merchant samples, and sales samples are produced accurately and are shipped on time.
- Work collaboratively with other LO functions - Material development, Production, QA, Technician, and Corporate Responsibility to ensure an on time buy ready and commercialization performance
- Drive effective problem solving and continuous improvement
- Ensure accurate and timely updates of data management systems (PDM, Cognos, SharePoint) where applicable.