Merchandising Specialist

Job description

BASIC FUNCTION SUMMARY:

The Merchandising Specialist is a key contributor to the execution and optimization of corporate client merchandising programs within the promotional products industry. This role partners closely with the Corporate Merchandising Manager and Program Account Managers to source products, build curated assortments, analyze program performance, and deliver client-ready merchandising recommendations.

This position requires hands-on experience in the promotional products industry and a strong understanding of sourcing processes, vendor capabilities, decoration methods, and production timelines. The ideal candidate combines analytical skills with strong product intuition and is comfortable owning multiple programs in a fast-paced, client-facing environment.

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS: Duties, Skills, Responsibilities and Expectations:

Account Management, Reporting & Analysis

• Partner with Program Account Managers to understand client goals, brand standards, timelines, and merchandising priorities.
• Prepare and maintain recurring velocity reports, SKU scorecards, and performance summaries to track program health.
• Analyze SKU performance, sell-through, margin, and engagement data to support SKU rationalization, optimization, and refresh recommendations.
• Monitor Google Analytics and other engagement data to identify trends and recommend merchandising placement changes.
• Conduct carbon footprint reporting as required by client programs (quarterly, annually, or ad hoc).
• Identify and communicate risks related to cost increases, discontinued items, out-of-stocks, or quality concerns, and recommend solutions.

Product Sourcing and Assortment Planning

• Own all client sourcing requests (one-off items, refreshes, and Limited Time Buys (LTBs)) in accordance with internal Sourcing Protocols.
• Curate customized product assortments that align with client brand guidelines, budget parameters, margin targets, and program objectives.
• Source products by working directly with suppliers and category partners.
• Price products accurately and develop polished, client-ready presentations, including specifications, timelines, and cost details.

Inventory, SKU and Program Management

• Evaluate SKU expansion requests based on program capacity, operational feasibility, and performance impact.
• Proactively identify underperforming SKUs and recommend promotional strategies, substitutions, or phase-outs.
• Review inventory and performance reporting in partnership with internal teams to identify trends and improvement opportunities.
• Track project timelines and proactively flag sourcing, production, or fulfillment risks.

Trend Analysis and Merchandising Strategy

• Utilize internal systems (e.g., NetSuite) and external market sources to identify category, product, and consumer trends.
• Integrate trend insights into assortment planning, refresh cycles, and new program launches.
• Contribute merchandising insights to support ongoing program optimization and merchandising department development.

Client Interation and Communication

• Participate in and as needed, lead recurring client calls and merchandising discussions.
• Serve as a merchandising subject-matter expert, presenting thoughtful, solution oriented product recommendations.
• Develop and deliver high-quality client presentations that clearly articulate assortment rationale and trade-offs.
• Capture and distribute detailed recap notes following client and internal meetings.
• Build credibility and trust with internal stakeholders, suppliers, and clients through clear, accurate communication.

New Store Implemenations

• Support new client store launches by leading merchandising workstreams, including sourcing, assortment development, and timeline coordination.
• Lead implementation meetings, capture detailed notes, and deliver timely follow ups aligned with brand and merchandising objectives.

MINIMUM REQUIREMENTS:

• Bachelor’s degree in Merchandising, Marketing, Business, or a related field, or equivalent relevant experience.
• 3+ years of experience in the promotional products industry (distributor, agency, or supplier environment) preferred.
• Demonstrated experience sourcing and merchandising products for client programs or e-commerce stores.
• Advanced proficiency in Excel and PowerPoint are required. Candidates must be comfortable independently building Excel-based reports and developing client facing PowerPoint presentations.
• Working knowledge of NetSuite or similar ERP/CRM systems; experience with Google Analytics or e-commerce analytics tools preferred.
• Understanding of promotional product decoration methods, vendor capabilities, and production timelines.
• Experience with Jira is a plus.
• Ability to manage multiple projects simultaneously in a deadline-driven environment.
• Strong attention to detail, organizational discipline, and follow-through.
• Strong written, verbal, and interpersonal communication skills.
• Ability to work independently while collaborating effectively across teams.
• Comfortable making independent merchandising recommendations and presenting trade-offs to internal teams and clients.

Key Competencies:

• Promotional products merchandising expertise
• Analytical thinking and data-driven decision-making
• Product assortment planning and SKU optimization
• Project management and prioritization
• Client-facing communication and presentation skills
• Vendor and cross-functional collaboration
• Initiative, ownership, and professional judgment
• Adaptability in a fast-paced, evolving environment

WORKING CONDITIONS:

• Fully remote (U.S. only), with flexibility to support ET/EDT time zone as primary
• Dedicated workspace and reliable high-speed internet
• Frequent virtual communication including video conference/email/chat

BENEFITS:

In addition to the fun and positive work environment that we provide you will also receive:

• Competitive Compensation Package
• Medical, Dental, Vision, Life and Ancillary product options
• HSA and FSA
• Traditional and Roth 401(k) with employer matching contributions
• Paid Time Off with Holidays
• An engaging work life with life balance
• Growth opportunities
• 100% remote workforce

Salary Range:

$50,000 - $60,000 annually

Compensation for this role will vary based on factors such as qualifications, experience, skill level, and competencies. The Company will meet minimum wage or the minimum of the pay range (whichever is higher) based on city, county, and state requirements.

We are an Equal Opportunity Employer!

ePromos is committed to creating a diverse workplace environment and is proud to be an equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, gender, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, national origin, genetics, disability, age, or veteran status.

We do not accept resume submissions from third party recruiters.