Merchandise Sample Coordinator

**This role is a great opportunity for someone looking to make the transition from in-store retail into a corporate retail environment. If you have a background in merchandise handling, store operations, or retail floor management, the hands-on skills you've built translate directly here - just in a creative studio setting. It's a foot in the door to the world of retail marketing and production, with real exposure to how a product comes to life behind the scenes.

Aquent is partnering with a leading retail organization renowned for its dedication to delivering exceptional value and a diverse array of merchandise to its customers. This company is a driving force in the retail sector, consistently innovating to meet evolving consumer needs and create engaging shopping experiences.

Are you a meticulous organizer with a keen eye for detail and a passion for bringing marketing visions to life? Imagine playing a pivotal role in shaping how products are presented to millions of customers. As a vital member of our creative services team, you will be the linchpin in ensuring every marketing campaign, from stunning photography to engaging video and special events, has the perfect merchandise ready to shine. Your meticulous coordination and proactive communication will directly impact the visual storytelling of our diverse product offerings, making a tangible difference in our brand's presence and customer engagement.

**What You'll Do**

* Actively participate in project kick-offs, internal sample reviews, and other critical meetings related to assigned projects.

* Proactively procure, gather, and meticulously organize samples, aligning with dynamic marketing requirements and production schedules.

* Ensure the timely receipt and accuracy of all samples and associated details for each project.

* Track and monitor the journey of all samples from initial submission through post-production phases.

* Interpret creative direction and seasonal themes to accurately procure necessary samples and props.

* Implement and maintain a barcode system for samples housed within the designated photo studio.

* Maintain and organize sample rooms across designated facilities.

* Orchestrate the efficient return and purging of samples following production completion.

* Coordinate the sharing and allocation of samples across multiple concurrent projects.

* Manage the tracking and shipment of merchandise between various internal and external partners (e.g., vendors, production sites).

* Maintain comprehensive records of sample and shot statuses to facilitate effective communication with key stakeholders.

* Develop and maintain project follow-up documentation to communicate and resolve outstanding issues with internal partners.

* Serve as a crucial liaison between internal partners and execution teams, proactively addressing and resolving sample-related inquiries.

* Evaluate capture requirements based on sample details and established Style Guides to create corresponding capture outlines.

* Collaborate with producers and the project coordination team to ensure merchandise availability aligns with established timelines and production priorities.

**Qualifications**

**Must-Have Skills & Experience**

* Bachelor's Degree or equivalent related business experience.

* Demonstrated strong collaboration and communication skills, with the ability to effectively work with a diverse group of individuals.

* Exceptional detail-orientation combined with advanced organizational skills.

* Proven ability to thrive in a high-volume, fast-paced environment.

* Adept at managing an assigned workload while effectively adapting to changing priorities.

* Proficient computer skills and the ability to quickly understand and utilize advanced applications.

* A champion for continuous process improvement initiatives.

**Nice-to-Have Skills & Experience**

* Experience in merchandise management.

* Ability to stand for extended periods, climb ladders, and utilize rolling staircases.

* Capable of lifting up to 25-40 lbs.

* Flexibility to travel on occasion.

#LI-MM3

**About Aquent Talent:**

Aquent Talent connects the best talent in marketing, creative, and design with the world's biggest brands.

Our eligible talent get access to amazing benefits like subsidized health, vision, and dental plans, paid sick leave, and retirement plans with a match. We also offer free online training through Aquent Gymnasium. More information on our awesome benefits!

Aquent is an equal-opportunity employer. We evaluate qualified applicants without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, veteran status, and other legally protected characteristics. We're about creating an inclusive environment-one where different backgrounds, experiences, and perspectives are valued, and everyone can contribute, grow their careers, and thrive.