Sourcing Specialist

Sourcing Specialist: Plush, Ornaments, and Collectibles                                                                                          

The Sourcing Specialist – Plush, Ornaments, & Collectibles, Merchandising Sourcing & Product Development (MSPD) develops and manages partnerships with best-in-class suppliers and internal stakeholders as they pertain to the sourcing and production of best-in-category Disney-branded merchandise.  In partnership with Sourcing Manager, MSPD, s/he is responsible for executing Sourcing strategies across categories and/or departments.  The Sourcing Specialist will develop, collaborate and produce results with regard to product sample quality, time/cost efficiency and revenue growth. This person possesses knowledge of global development and sourcing processes, has strong project management skills, and has a working knowledge of PTC Windchill Product Lifecycle Management (PLM) or similar systems.

This position reports to Senior Sourcing Manager – Plush, Ornaments, & Collectibles, Merchandising Sourcing & Product Development, and provides support and assistance with operational and organizational functions to develop and source merchandise under the strategic guidance of the Category Managers, Sourcing within a given department and/or sub-category of product.

RESPONSIBILITIES:

Sourcing and Product Compliance

• Assist the merchandise sourcing & production of ornaments, collectibles, and plush, for Theme Parks & Resorts retail locations, Disney Stores, and alternative business model opportunities in partnership with the sourcing and cross-functional teams.
• Drive the packaging process for 1 -3 product categories, in partnership with internal and external cross-functional partners.
• Partner on vendor strategy, product costing/placement, manage vendor communication and production management related to designated product categories.
• Manage Development Tracking Reports (DTRs), sample tracking and approval processes throughout each development season.
• Provides additional support to team in merchandise sourcing and product development involving data entry, sample management, and day-to-day tasks, as requested.

Productivity and Process 

• Manage the workflow and on-time delivery of quarterly data entry tasks, such as item level sourcing configurations, regional cost sheets, margin roll ups, etc. as requested by Manager.
• Contact vendors to follow-up and verify the accuracy of provided data, resolve routine issues and ensure vendor alignment with Disney processes and procedures.
• Follow up with vendor communication regarding any outstanding samples (Development, Pre-Production, Top of Production, etc).
• Ensure item data is completed, accurately, within the PLM system to ensure on-time PO issuance.
• Schedule and participate Production Handoff to the Responsible Sourcing and Production team at the end of each costing season.
• Track, receive, and organize samples. May attend sample and design reviews to take notes on changes and manage communication to supplier.

Collaboration and Communication

• Prepare standard and ad-hoc reports as requested (Timing and Action Calendars, production timelines, status updates, etc.)
• Build strong collaborative relationships with internal and external partners.
• Attend weekly cross-functional meetings and quarterly Product Line Review Meetings to understand key sourcing issues and action items.
• Communicate production status to global and regional partners during weekly cross-functional meetings as required.
• Proactively identify, communicate, and/or escalation product development issues when necessary.

QUALIFICATIONS AND SKILLS:

• 1+ years related experience preferably in specialty retail or consumer products
• Proven record of project management skills, with an emphasis on on-time deliverables, effective communication, and data accuracy. 
• Previous exposure to sourcing, production, or merchandising of multiple product categories
• Proven track record of effectively communicating with manufacturers/suppliers
• Ability to manage multiple SKU’s and multiple timelines within a fast-paced environment
• Ability to work collaboratively with multiple design and development partners, a team player
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills
• Ability and desire to be flexible, adapt to change and grow with organization

REQUIRED EDUCATION:

• Associate degree or Technical Degree in Merchandising/Product Development/Design, Business or Supply Chain or 1+ years of related experience