Job Description
Performs merchandising and account management activities specifically related to client apparel accessory trim development and order management for a designated business segment of the Company. Ensures the accurate and timely flow of information required for efficient company operations and excellent business relations, acting as interface between the customer and manufacturing/sourcing functions of the Company. Coordinates order activity and service requirements, including development and costing, sample coordination and approval, quote development and follow-up, order processing, and coordination of delivery requirements. Identifies opportunities for account growth.Works with customers and internal stakeholders to understand account requirements and implement program and product line plans and development calendars, with a focus on apparel accessory trim development and order management. Acts as liaison between design, development, sales, supply chain, and production to ensure presentation of appropriate product assortment, development of product costing within parameters, and creation of products that meet customer aesthetic, quality, and performance expectations.Assesses incoming information and development requests to ensure complete and accurate documentation of customer requirements and validate that product specifications are within company competencies.  Ensures that customer specifications are clearly understood, communicated and match with Company capabilities and capacities.  Identifies and resolves issues which impact customer performance expectations.Understands product specifications, product configuration and associated tools including product configurators, art templates and collaterals.  Validates product configuration for conformance to technical specifications, cost parameters, lead-time requirements, and overall manufacturability.   Coordinates with designers to drive product costs that meet specific target price points, backward engineering as required.  Works with design, development and engineering in a coordinated effort to support development of SMU and new products, including changes in material or technique.Services the day-to-day activities of accounts within a business segment, including processing art requests, new product sample requests, quoting needs and order placement.  Ensures that customer delivery requirements are within predetermined lead times based on market segment and customer forecast and works to effect alignment.  Responsible for ensuring that all orders entered into Company's database are accurate, approved, priced properly and have the appropriate terms and conditions of the contract listed. Implements and maintains spreadsheets and other program management tools in order to effectively manage and communicate program information between the Customer and the Company.  Works to standardize procedures to improve efficiency.Communicates and coordinates with manufacturing and sourcing to verify delivery, expedite product and support the development of large volume opportunities and programs.Performs order management activities, including delivery, shipment, credit, billing, and quality issues.   Follows up with customers regarding delivery dates.  Responds to and resolves customer issues and complaints.Investigates and works with appropriate functional department to resolve customer issues, including delivery, shipment, credit, billing, and quality issues.  Coordinates and prepares RMAs as required.Analyzes account activity.  Cultivates and strengthens relationships within designated accounts to achieve both Customer and Company goals.Travels to account locations and trade shows, programs and events as required.