Merchandising Manager - Full Time - Rancho Bernardo Warehouse

Overseeing a specific segment of business, the Merchandising Manager is responsible for planning, developing, selecting, managing and purchasing goods that are sold in retail gifts shops at the San Diego Zoo, Safari Park, and online store, Shopzoo.com. Merchandise Managers are responsible achieving quarterly and annual sales budgets through strategic, well managed assortments and inventory levels. This position reports to the Director of Merchandise Planning.

WHAT YOU WILL DO

• Formulates quarterly core and seasonal assortment based on trends and opportunities in alignment with top line plans to meet key metrics (sales, margin, turn).
• Conducts in-season execution and review of itemized assortment plan. Achieves monthly targets through forecasting and open to buy management while adhering to action calendar.
• Partners with vendors, manufacturers, designers to procure and develop brand right custom merchandise. Evaluates vendor options by negotiating price, quality, service, terms, discounts, etc. to determine the best choices for the organization. Forges and maintains vendor relationships.
• Manages and develops assigned Merchandise Buyer, including performance management.
• Ensures the timely delivery of products, compliance with the contracts of purchase, and solves any problems that may arise with the merchandise and/or supplier.
• Builds and sustains influential and collaborative partnerships cross-functionally to achieve Corporate Merchandising financial objectives.
• Communicates closely with Store Managers, Warehouse team, Visual Display, and Inventory Control to maintain open, organized, merchandise coordination. Participates in store walk-throughs at the Zoo and Safari Park several times a month.
• Partners with Director of Merchandise Planning to plan, lead and direct merchandise presentation in assigned categories in conjunction with quarterly plans, special events and promotions.

WHAT WE ARE LOOKING FOR

• Preferred candidate with analytics, planning, and problem-solving experience.
• San Diego Zoo Wildlife Alliance is seeking an individual who is inspired to be a part of an organization that is committed to protecting wildlife around the globe.
• A leader to join us in our commitment to provide opportunities to learn about, engage with best-in-class conservation work, and share how that work is changing outcomes for wildlife every day through visits to the San Diego Zoo and San Diego Zoo Safari Park. 

JOB EXPERIENCE

• 2+ years prior experience in merchandise buying, retail, or similar role
• Prior management experience preferred 

EDUCATION AND CERTIFICATIONS

• Bachelor's Degree In business administration, merchandising, marketing, art, or a related field
• Current valid California Driver’s license in good standing

SKILLS AND KNOWLEDGE

• Must be a self-starter with analytical approach. Works well under pressure with tight deadlines.
• Must possess a comprehensive understanding of retail math including sales trends, sell thrus, turn, initial mark up, gross margin.
• Demonstrated aptitude in effective negotiating.
• Strong interpersonal skills, resourcefulness, and collaborative nature.
• Experience with product development and market research.
• Able to operate moderately complex inventory management and purchasing software programs.
• Proficient in MS Word, Excel, Power Point.
• Demonstrated ability to work well in diverse team environment.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills while tailoring messages to the appropriate audiences.

SOME OF THE PERKS YOU WILL ENJOY AS A TEAM MEMBER

• Free admission to the San Diego Zoo and the San Diego Zoo Safari Park
• Family Passes
• Complimentary Tickets
• Local and In-House Discounts
• Employee Assistance Program
• Wellness Program