Merchandising Operations Project Specialist

The Merchandising Operations Project Specialist works closely with a cross-functional team to assist in driving new product development projects. They will support numerous key decision points in these projects including but not limited to Structural Packaging & Creative Changes to Packaging to Store Environment Planogram considerations. The ultimate goal is to ensure new products are introduced in an accurate and timely manner. S/he is responsible for managing and maintaining multiple, simultaneous new product “projects”—many of which are complex in nature—ensuring adherence to project objectives and deadlines. This person provides thoughtful and effective solutions as well as plans for execution for each of his/her projects. The role is highly collaborative, involving coordinated efforts between the Merchant and multiple cross functional teams such as Store Environment, Product Development, QA, GS, IT, E-Commerce, Supply Chain, Creative Designers, Compliance and Legal. Essential Duties and Responsibilities Assist in managing over 250 new product development projects concurrently within Workfront, the corporate project management system, to ensure deadlines are met and critical projects are executed thoroughly Faciliate collaboration across teams to effectively and efficiently develop and implement process improvements in the new product development process Drive and troubleshoot project related issues and questions with the Merchant, Product Development, Creative Designers, Global Sourcing, QA and Store Environment teams Oversee, monitor and provide updates on project status with department and key stakeholders Track workflow to keep team focused on priorities and provide careful oversight of their schedules. Ensure projects remain on time and all stakeholders are aware of roadblocks that are preventing completion in the time allotted Drive project approvals to ensure all project milestones are met Route proofs to designers, writers and Category Teams for final sign off before printing mass production. Liason with cross-functional team to ensure in-store planogram changes are developed and approved in advance for new product set dates, refreshes to existing items and for store tests. Scope Supervises staff –No Financial Scope – TBD Organizational Scope – All US locations Decision Making – Some Location: HQ Calabasas office Travel – None The anticipated salary range for this position is $69,500– $104,200 depending on location, knowledge, skills, education and experience. This position is also eligible for an annual discretionary bonus. In addition, we offer comprehensive and competitive benefits to Associates (and their families) such as medical, dental, vision, life insurance, short-term and long-term disability. Eligible Associates are able to enroll in our company’s 401k plan. Associates will accrue paid time off up to 236 hours per year (inclusive of PTO, floating holidays, and paid holidays). Paid sick time up to 80 hours per year unless otherwise required by law. Requirements Job Qualifications – Education and Experience Bachelor’s Degree preferred Min. 3 years of experience managing projects Retail experience preferred Excellent verbal and written communication skills Superior time management, organizational and problem-solving skills Excellent writing and editing skills Proficiency in Microsoft Office programs Must be detail oriented, collaborative and proactive Quick learner who is a team player The ability to influence and experience working with multiple departments Skilled problem solver who can communicate urgency while remaining cool, calm, collected Physical Requirements General office environment requiring ability to: stand, walk, sit for extended periods of time speak and listen to others in person and over the phone use keyboard and read from computer screen and reports lift up to 15 lbs. About Harbor Freight Tools Founded in 1977,…

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