**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 products + Proven 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 categories + Proven track record of effectively communicating with manufacturers/suppliers + Ability to manage multiple SKU’s and multiple timelines within a fast-paced environment + Ability to work collaboratively with multiple design and development partners, a team player + Excellent written and verbal communication skills + Ability 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 **Job ID:** 10116959 **Location:** Kissimmee,Florida **Job Posting Company:** Disney Experiences The Walt Disney Company and its Affiliated Companies are Equal Employment Opportunity employers and welcome all job seekers including individuals with disabilities and veterans with disabilities. 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