JOB PURPOSE: The Associate Merchandiser is responsible for assisting the Merchandising team in their daily merchandising activities including sampling, order processing, reporting, data entry, and production tracking. They work in conjunction with vendors to realize the deadlines for each season.KEY RESPONSIBILITIES: Follow-up on T&A of sample development.Ensure key dates are met on brand calendars.Follow-up on program approval samples with factories and notify Merchandise Manager of any major issues during the development cycle.Daily update & track product development status, performing follow-ups to ensure everything runs as planned.Visit vendors based on the dates for sample reviews, color reviews, and pre-production meetings.Ensure samples are made based on the latest revisions and ready on time; inform vendors on approvals.Work under strict deadlines.Establish business and technical support with factory management and R&D staff, daily update & track product development status, testing status, photo sample status, and perform follow-ups to ensure everything runs as planned.Document all Product Information Sheets (PIS) and update Sourcing & Product Development team: final product data sheet, final sample review form.Update Sourcing & Product Development Team with tracking details; create quote sheet and SKU Worksheet for every new product.Regularly visit vendors, follow up with outstanding issues, and update Brand Managers accordingly.Manage on-time sample delivery.Other duties as assigned.JOB HOLDER'S COMPETENCIES & EXPERIENCE: 1+ years sourcing/merchandising experience preferred, especially in Furniture (Upholstery / Casegoods).Ability to collaborate with the team as well as work independently and maintain a high level of confidentiality.Strong follow-up skills, sense of ownership, and attention to detail.Professional proficiency in written, communication, and presentation skills.Ability to represent WSI standards and expectations.Adaptable to working in a fast-paced environment with overlapping seasonal calendars.Expert knowledge of Microsoft Office, including Word, PowerPoint, Excel, and Outlook.Effectively manage and communicate with stakeholders from different time zones and provide timely responses.Able to deliver results by influencing internal and external partners.#J-18808-Ljbffr