Job Summary:

Sourcing Specialist: Plush, Ornaments, and Collectibles                                                                                          

The Sourcing Specialist – Plush, Ornaments, & Collectibles, Merchandising Sourcing & Product Development (MSPD) develops and manages partnerships with best-in-class suppliers and internal stakeholders as they pertain to the sourcing and production of best-in-category Disney-branded merchandise.  In partnership with Sourcing Manager, MSPD, s/he is responsible for executing Sourcing strategies across categories and/or departments.  The Sourcing Specialist will develop, collaborate and produce results with regard to product sample quality, time/cost efficiency and revenue growth. This person possesses knowledge of global development and sourcing processes, has strong project management skills, and has a working knowledge of PTC Windchill Product Lifecycle Management (PLM) or similar systems.

This position reports to Senior Sourcing Manager – Plush, Ornaments, & Collectibles, Merchandising Sourcing & Product Development, and provides support and assistance with operational and organizational functions to develop and source merchandise under the strategic guidance of the Category Managers, Sourcing within a given department and/or sub-category of product.

RESPONSIBILITIES:

Sourcing and Product Compliance

Assist the merchandise sourcing & production of ornaments, collectibles, and plush, for Theme Parks & Resorts retail locations, Disney Stores, and alternative business model opportunities in partnership with the sourcing and cross-functional teams.Drive the packaging process for 1 -3 product categories, in partnership with internal and external cross-functional partners.Partner on vendor strategy, product costing/placement, manage vendor communication and production management related to designated product categories.Manage Development Tracking Reports (DTRs), sample tracking and approval processes throughout each development season.Provides additional support to team in merchandise sourcing and product development involving data entry, sample management, and day-to-day tasks, as requested.

Productivity and Process 

Manage the workflow and on-time delivery of quarterly data entry tasks, such as item level sourcing configurations, regional cost sheets, margin roll ups, etc. as requested by Manager.Contact vendors to follow-up and verify the accuracy of provided data, resolve routine issues and ensure vendor alignment with Disney processes and procedures.Follow up with vendor communication regarding any outstanding samples (Development, Pre-Production, Top of Production, etc).Ensure item data is completed, accurately, within the PLM system to ensure on-time PO issuance.Schedule and participate Production Handoff to the Responsible Sourcing and Production team at the end of each costing season.Track, receive, and organize samples. May attend sample and design reviews to take notes on changes and manage communication to supplier.

Collaboration and Communication

Prepare standard and ad-hoc reports as requested (Timing and Action Calendars, production timelines, status updates, etc.)Build strong collaborative relationships with internal and external partners.Attend weekly cross-functional meetings and quarterly Product Line Review Meetings to understand key sourcing issues and action items.Communicate production status to global and regional partners during weekly cross-functional meetings as required.Proactively identify, communicate, and/or escalation product development issues when necessary.

QUALIFICATIONS AND SKILLS:

1+ years related experience preferably in specialty retail or consumer productsProven record of project management skills, with an emphasis on on-time deliverables, effective communication, and data accuracy. Previous exposure to sourcing, production, or merchandising of multiple product categoriesProven track record of effectively communicating with manufacturers/suppliersAbility to manage multiple SKU’s and multiple timelines within a fast-paced environmentAbility to work collaboratively with multiple design and development partners, a team playerExcellent written and verbal communication skillsAbility and desire to be flexible, adapt to change and grow with organization

REQUIRED EDUCATION:

Associate degree or Technical Degree in Merchandising/Product Development/Design, Business or Supply Chain or 1+ years of related experience