Merchandising Operations Manager
ComfrtAbout Comfrt: Comfrt blends mental wellness, inclusivity, and elevated comfort into every piece we create. Our mission goes beyond clothing: we strive to build a community where everyone feels supported and seen. About the Role: We are seeking an experienced Merchandising Operations Manager to lead the day-to-day processes that turn approved product and merchandising plans into accurate purchase orders, complete SKU records, and reliable reporting. This hands-on manager owns PO entry and management, SKU creation and integrity, and the development of one direct report, a Merchandise Coordinator. The role partners closely with Merchandising, Product, Sourcing, Production, Supply Chain, Operations, Planning, and eCommerce to keep product information and order details aligned from initial setup through website launch and fulfillment. The ideal candidate combines strong execution with people leadership, clear communication, and the ability to improve processes while coaching a less experienced team member. Key Responsibilities: People Management and Development Manage and develop the Merchandise Coordinator, setting clear priorities, delegating work, and establishing expectations for accuracy, deadlines, and follow-through. Coach and train the direct report on PO entry and management, SKU creation, system integrity, reporting, and cross-functional communication. Conduct regular one-on-ones and performance reviews, provide actionable feedback, and establish development goals that build independent ownership. Review work quality, address skill gaps through structured training, and gradually build the coordinator's independent ownership; maintain backup coverage for critical processes. Purchase Order Entry and Management Own accurate and timely PO entry in the ERP or order management system based on approved buy plans and confirmed vendor information. Validate style numbers, SKUs, size and color quantities, vendor codes, costs, delivery dates, and shipping terms with Product, Sourcing, and Production before issuing orders. Manage the PO lifecycle from entry and issuance through revisions, shipment tracking, receipt reconciliation, and closure; keep open order records current. Partner with Sourcing and Production to confirm vendor acknowledgments, production milestones, and delivery commitments; flag missing information and delays early. Process approved PO changes, cancellations, and delivery updates with documented approvals and a clear record of revisions; communicate changes to all affected teams. Reconcile ordered, shipped, and received quantities with Supply Chain and relevant partners; investigate discrepancies and coordinate resolution. Cross Functional Collaboration and Communication Partner with Merchandising, Product, Sourcing, Production, Supply Chain, Operations, Planning, and eCommerce to align approved buys, order details, SKU setup, and launch timelines. Provide clear updates on open orders, outstanding decisions, and delivery risks, including the business impact and recommended next steps. Drive proactive follow-up, clarify owners and deadlines, and close outstanding issues without repeated prompting. SKU Creation and Data Integrity Create and maintain SKUs for new styles, colors, and sizes using established naming conventions; validate product attributes and prevent duplicate records. Partner with Operations to ensure SKU records and mappings support accurate inventory tracking, receiving, and fulfillment. Work closely with eCommerce to ensure SKUs and product attributes transfer accurately to the website and map to the correct product variants. Maintain SKU traceability across purchase orders, operational systems, website listings, and inventory records; investigate and resolve mapping discrepancies. Audit product, vendor, cost, and PO data; establish validation controls to prevent errors and maintain consistency across systems. Reporting and Analysis Maintain reports for open POs, production status, incoming invento…