Merchandising Specialist - Promotional Products (Remote)
HALODescription: We are HALO! We build brand engagement for our over 60,000 clients globally and lead our $25B industry through the dedication of over 2,000 team members across the United States. As a global leader in branded merchandise, uniform programs, and recognition and incentive solutions, HALO combines unparalleled creativity, targeted strategic insights, the diversity of our talent, and flawless execution to unleash the energy and spark the magic that create unforgettable moments, energizing and amplifying brands to capture—and hold—the attention of the people who matter most to our client’s success. HALO is looking for a Merchandiser of Promotional Products to join our high-growth company. In this role, you support one or more accounts by leading the product development sourcing lifecycle. You will create exceptional branded merchandise for each account by utilizing market trend research, client initiatives, and brand strategy while working with internal teams to achieve client margin requirements, meet firm deadlines, and maximize profitability. Note: This Merchandising opportunity is specifically for Promotional Products within the Promo Industry, not for Retail . Responsibilities Develop, source, and execute the strategic product assortment that aligns to our client(s) needs for e-commerce & catalog promotional product to drive sales, conversion rate and overall profitability for the SKUs and categories. Serve as the brand ambassador for client(s) and expert on brand guidelines, marketing campaigns, product trends and industry competition. Utilize relevant reporting and analysis to communicate business trends, SKU level performance. Conduct quarterly internal & competitive analysis to identify best practices and recommend action steps. Engage with internal & external cross-functional partners to communicate and establish work-back calendars for timely product launch dates. Manage the timely delivery of product specific materials for client meetings; PowerPoint presentations, costing information and spec samples for client meetings. Responsible for vendor sourcing, product development & cost negotiations; understanding the importance of meeting target margins and price point tiers. Enter and own sample order process and account sample budget from start to finish. Serve as internal expert on supply chain capabilities, product trends, and ways to stay ahead of the competition by attending promotional product trade shows & supplier presentations (in person/virtual). Collaborate with Creative Team to provide direction on design for trend presentations, product mockups, web photography and other needs. Responsible for creating & maintaining item bill of materials for the Operations team to load including approved proofs, product copy, size charts and web ready photography. Support Account Executives and Marketing by attending and assisting with client-owned events such as tradeshows, pop-up shops and national sales meetings. Requirements: Bachelor's degree in marketing, communications, business or related field, or equivalent combination of 5 years experience and education 3+ years experience within the Promotional Products industry Proficiency in Microsoft applications (Word, Excel, Outlook and PowerPoint) Excellent oral, written, and interpersonal communication skills Ability to build strong vendor partnerships; Strong negotiation and strategic planning skills Excellent business math skills including a working knowledge of gross margin and assortment planning Confidence and ability to articulate and sell a concept to a business team, both external and internal, with strong presentation skills Detail oriented, strong organizational skills and the ability to deliver under deadlines with a high level of accuracy Strong work ethic that supports working independently, under minimal supervision as well as the ability to work effectively in a collaborative team environment with a dynamic range of people Ability…