Associate Manager - ae Global Merchandising

Job description

Associate Manager - AE, Global Merchandising

REPORTS TO:Sr. Manager - AE, Global Merchandising

POSITION SUMMARY:

• Responsible for leading the development of the commercially viable assortment which services the needs of all international markets, for assigned division of business, in collaboration with U.S. merchandising, design & production teams
• Responsible for the execution of sell-in tools for international partners in preparation for go-to-market
• Acts as product engine between Geo Buyers and U.S. CFT partners (production, design, U.S. merchandising) conveying product needs, business strategies and performance
• Responsible for American Eagle men's polos, men's tees & men's sweaters categories

• Participates in all U.S. product milestones to understand how the total assortment is developing, and feeds back any gaps affecting international business requirements
• Collaborates w/ Geo Buying and International Partners on geo specific product needs; Ensures product development execution meets international assortment needs
• Analyzes product performance, presenting to leadership on a monthly basis. Identifies opportunities to respond to changes in the trend within the marketplace in order to impact future product development strategies
• With support of manager, oversees pre-season global product roadmap for U.S. merchandising & design for all required international product development for assigned division
• With support of manager, leads the presentation of international product strategies for assigned departments/division at every milestone meeting ( sketch review, product alignment, coordination) to leadership teams
• With support of manager, leads the product development process and time & action calendar for division of business, proactively bubbling up challenges and roadblocks to Manager
• Responsible for creation of assortment communication (sell-in) tools in NuOrder to -
  • Ensure all partners understand products available to buy
  • Ensures related product details are complete, i.e. imagery, costing, retail price
  • Ensures a compelling presentation of product assortments to sell-in to external partners across a multi-channel business model
• Build and foster close relationships with International CFT and U.S. CFT partners
• Provides leadership and direction to Assistant Merchant, clearing roadblocks and supporting personal and professional development throughout all milestones.
• Understands brand trends, international competition and the AE customer
• Works closely with Design team to interpret and forecast trends for assigned departments/division to create international exclusives where applicable. Routinely comp shops & shares back findings with the CFT
• Consistently and effectively communicates business related issues to manager in a timely manner
• Perform other duties as assigned

• Bachelor's Degree in Fashion Merchandising, Business, or equivalent required
• 3+ years prior buying, merchandising or product development experience
• Strong business acumen and strategic agility
• Proven ability to support growth in a very fast paced, growing environment
• Problem solver - talented in looking beyond the page and solve to multiple business model complexities
• Product development experience and an eye for relevant trends
• Intermediate Excel skills including pivots, V look ups
• Experience working in matrixed organizational structures a plus
• Cross culture sensitivity - international experience a plus, and is able to work effectively in a multi-cultural environment
• Edited and NuOrder experience a plus
• Action oriented with excellent attention to detail and follow through
• Flexibility to work outside of standard U.S. business hours
• Strong verbal and written communication skills

• Actual starting pay is determined by various factors, including but not limited to relevant experience and location.
• Subject to eligibility requirements, associates may receive health care benefits (including medical, vision, and dental); wellness benefits; 401(k) retirement benefits; life and disability insurance; employee stock purchase program; paid time off; paid sick leave; and parental leave and benefits.
• Paid Time Off, paid sick leave, and holiday pay vary by job level and type, job location, employment classification (part-time or full-time / exempt or non-exempt), and years of service. For additional information, please click here.
• AEO may also provide discretionary bonuses and other incentives at its discretion.

Additional Information

• Anticipated Pay Range: $72,000 - $80,000