Manager - Visual Merchandising Job at AEO in New York

Overview

POSITION TITLE: Visual Merchandising Manager

REPORTS TO: Sr Director of Visual Brand Experience

POSITION SUMMARY:

Responsible for handling and leading all aspects of the visual presentation of Todd Snyder as represented in the marketplace. This role works cross functionally with business partners to support communicating big ideas and brand moments/objectives.

RESPONSIBILITIES

• Implement a VM strategy for all stores, aligning the brand’s overall business objectives.
• Ensure consistency in visual presentation across various markets while adapting to local nuances and preferences, while setting and maintaining the brand\'s VM principles.
• Be responsible for the showroom which includes leading walkthroughs, VM set up, scheduling, floor mapping, and signage.
• Collaborate with merchandising on big buys/new ideas when setting up showrooms for line opening, including seasonal concepts and custom visual displays.
• Compile and annotate monthly concept books VM, Styling and Windows for field teams.
• Develop VM Principle guidelines for incorporating regional nuance to ensure a consistent execution on a seasonal basis.
• Partner with Regions, Markets and Store Managers on a consistent basis to ensure the category is always being presented to the Global standard but allowing flexibility to adapt to the local consumer needs and business trends.
• Support marketing team on the execution of all showroom setups, visual merchandising guideline proposals, key mannequin looks, and brand activations.
• Provide training to regional, market, and in-store visual teams when visiting markets to increase product visibility and build an appealing experience for the consumer.
• Build a rapport with local store managers and retail teams, listening to their feedback and using the information to make informed decisions in-stores.
• Work with the Store Design team to review product floor-plans and new store openings to ensure that they match the key VM principles.
• Manage a formal Creative calendar that includes window and interior concept and sign off process as well as window document production partnering with all members of the business and holding all parties accountable.
• Work with business field partners to maintain and communicate prop inventory (discards and keep lists) on a seasonal basis.
• Lead development of self and team for maximum performance on a consistent basis with timely feedback and training as needed.
• Travel as required.
• Other projects and responsibilities as assigned & necessitated by the business.

QUALIFICATIONS

• Bachelor\'s Degree required in any liberal arts and /or business degree or commensurate work experience.
• Six years experience in retail and visual merchandising including styling.
• Global cultural awareness, strong fashion sense, and strong vendor relationships are preferred.
• Prior managerial/supervisory experience.
• High degree of proficiency MS Office Suite, Outlook & Internet applications and photo editing software.
• Strong analytical, prioritizing, interpersonal, problem-solving, presentation, budgeting, project management (from conception to completion), & planning skills.
• Strong verbal and written communication skills.
• Travel is required, including the potential for international travel.
• Demonstrated collaborative skills and ability to work well within a team.
• Ability to work with and influence peers and senior management.
• Ability to work in a high-ambiguity, fast-paced and deadline-oriented environment.
• Self-motivated with critical attention to detail, deadlines and reporting.
• Able to stand and move about for extended periods of time with only short rest breaks; reach, bend, stoop, etc. to handle products.
• Ability to move up to 50 lbs occasionally and 25 lbs regularly and climb 8’ to 10’ ladders to retrieve and/or stock merchandise as needed.

PAY/BENEFITS INFORMATION

• Actual starting pay is determined by various factors, including but not limited to relevant experience and location.
• Subject to eligibility requirements, associates may receive health care benefits (including medical, vision, and dental); wellness benefits; 401(k) retirement benefits; life and disability insurance; employee stock purchase program; paid time off; paid sick leave; and parental leave and benefits.
• Paid Time Off, paid sick leave, and holiday pay vary by job level and type, job location, employment classification (part-time or full-time / exempt or non-exempt), and years of service. For additional information, please click here.
• AEO may also provide discretionary bonuses and other incentives at its discretion.