Trade Merchandising Operations Lead

POSITION: Trade Merchandising Operations Lead

DEPARTMENT: Sourcing & Production REPORTS TO: COO

Job Summary:

The Trade Merchandising Operations Lead is responsible for managing the end-to-end execution of in-store merchandising initiatives, including sidekicks, pallets, and retailer-specific displays. Positioned within the Supply Chain, this role works closely with Sales to gather requirements, partners with display vendors on structural design, and collaborates with plant and logistics teams to optimize costs. This position ensures the seamless and cost-effective delivery of merchandising programs by coordinating with internal and external stakeholders.

Key Responsibilities:

Retail Display Management:

• Collaborate with the sales team to assess merchandising needs and prioritize key accounts for display materials.
• Coordinate with internal design teams to ensure the timely delivery of renderings.
• Advise the sales team on timelines and optimal design strategies to minimize material usage, maximize product visibility, and balance cost efficiency with on-time execution.
• Partner with Sales, Production, and Logistics to ensure project financials are accurate and align with margin targets.
• Develop scalable solutions by standardizing structures, creating catalogs, and maintaining an organized inventory of display assets.

Development;

• Leverage your extensive knowledge of retail merchandising requirements to assist vendors in optimizing structural designs that achieve the ideal balance between durability and cost efficiency
• Act as the primary point of contact for display vendors, managing structural design and ensuring the accurate and timely delivery of dielines, build specifications, and required documentation.
• Oversee compliance with retailer display guidelines to maintain consistency and maximize effectiveness. Review and approve vendor structural designs to ensure alignment with retailer specifications.
• Collaborate with internal design teams to ensure the on-time delivery of artwork.

Production:

• Lead the decision-making process for production strategies, evaluating options such as full builds in China, sourcing materials from China with U.S. assembly, full U.S. production, or other alternatives.
• Collaborate with Planning and Production teams to ensure the timely release of production orders to manufacturing plants.
• Work closely with Production and Logistics teams to drive on-time execution while maintaining cost efficiency.
• Implement and oversee rigorous quality control measures in partnership with Production and Logistics teams to ensure high standards post-build

Project Management:

• Develop and maintain comprehensive project plans and timelines for all merchandising initiatives.
• Establish and implement clear stage gates and RACI frameworks to ensure accountability and streamlined workflows.
• Monitor and manage multiple projects concurrently, ensuring deadlines are met while keeping stakeholders informed of key updates.
• Proactively identify and address challenges throughout the entire process, from concept development to final delivery.

Performance Monitoring and Reporting:

• Key KPIs for the role are (1) On Time Delivery and (2) Cost/unit
• Prepare regular reports on project outcomes and key performance metrics.

Qualifications:

Education:

• Bachelor’s degree in Marketing, Operations, Business, or a related field.

Experience:

• Five plus (5 ) years of experience in trade merchandising and merchandising production
• 3 years of experience working with Walmart and Target
• Experience working with display vendors and co-packers in China and US

Skills:

• Deep expertise in Retail Merchandizing requirements, especially Wal-Mart and Target
• Understanding of cost drivers for merchandising programs
• Strong organizational and project management skills.
• Excellent communication and relationship management abilities.
• Attention to detail and ability to multitask in a fast-paced environment.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Excel or Google Sheets

Why Join Us?

🌟 Bring Trends to Life – We don’t just follow what’s next—we create it. Innovation and creativity are at the core of everything we do.

🎉 Energized Culture – Fast-paced, dynamic, and fueled by fresh ideas. Your impact is seen, heard, and celebrated.

💡 Radical Transparency – No guesswork. We believe in open dialogue, direct feedback, and shared success.

💰 Beyond Benefits – Competitive pay, standout perks, and real investment in your growth.

🚀 Push Boundaries – If you want to shape the future and turn ideas into reality, you belong here.

The Legal bits

The salary range for this role is $85,000.00- $100,000.00 annually, plus eligible for an annual target bonus prorated from the start date. This is the lowest to highest salary we in good faith, believe we would pay for this role at the time of this posting. An employee’s pay position within the wage range will be based on several factors including, but limited to, relevant education, qualifications, certifications, experience, skills, seniority, geographic location, performance, sales or revenue-based metrics, and business or organizational needs. This compensation range may

also be modified in the future.

Disclaimer:

The above statements are intended to describe the general nature and level of work being performed by the Team member(s) assigned to this position. They are not intended to be an exhaustive list of all responsibilities, duties, and skills required of individuals in this position. Position Descriptions may be subject to change as the needs of the organization change.

As an EQUAL EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITY EMPLOYER, What Do You Meme does not discriminate against applicants or employees because of their race, color, citizenship status, national origin, ancestry, sex, gender, sexual orientation, age religion, creed, marital status, veteran status, domestic violence victim status, familial status, or on any other basis prohibited by law. Furthermore, What Do You Meme will not discriminate against any applicant or employee because they is disabled, a disabled veteran, or a veteran of the Vietnam era, provided they are qualified and meets the requirements established by What Do you Meme for the job.