International Brand Operations Specialist

The International Brand Operations Specialist role at Designer Brands is pivotal in ensuring that products flow seamlessly from concept to customer across international markets. This position requires a blend of strategic thinking and hands-on execution.

About the role

This role serves as the primary liaison between international distributors, retail partners, and internal Designer Brands teams. It involves coordinating global partnerships, managing order and sample processes, tracking production and shipments, and reporting performance metrics.

Responsibilities

• Global Partner Coordination:

  • Primary point of contact for international distributors and retail partners
  • Share seasonal operational details by brand, including MOQs, order timelines, product details, pricing, and factory information
  • Communicate policies, guidelines, and resources such as compliance manuals and storage requirements

• Order & Sample Management:

  • Manage seasonal sample submissions and purchase orders: entry, tracking, and maintenance
  • Confirm and coordinate order details including purchase orders, ex-factory dates, shipping details, and labeling requirements

• Production & Shipment Tracking:

  • Maintain production updates on a weekly basis and provide timely updates
  • Coordinate key manufacturing updates, including shipment consolidations, factory delays, partial or short shipments, quality claims, and payment updates

• Performance Tracking & Reporting:

  • Compile and track seasonal KPIs such as on-time pickup, payment timelines, order accuracy, and tracking
  • Share backlog and order reports to support revenue and inventory planning

• Process Improvement & Problem Solving:

  • Identify opportunities to improve processes and share best practices
  • Standardize international operations across brands and regions
  • Develop solutions to address moderately complex operational challenges

Requirements

• Experience & Education:

  • 5+ years of experience in international sourcing operations, process management, or a related operational role
  • Bachelor’s degree in International Business, Business Administration, Sourcing Operations, or similar experience

• Core Skills:

  • Strong organization skills with attention to detail
  • Clear written and verbal communication
  • Working knowledge of cross-functional brand operations
  • Solution-focused mindset with the ability to adapt in a fast-changing environment
  • Able to manage competing priorities while maintaining professionalism and strong partner support

• Global Mindset:

  • Interest in learning about and working across different regions, cultures, and perspectives
  • Flexibility to collaborate across global time zones when needed
  • Ability to travel to Massachusetts or Ohio as required

Preferred Qualifications

• Familiarity with international business models and operational requirements
• Experience in footwear supply chain and logistics
• Multilingual capabilities are an asset

Benefits and Perks

Designer Brands offers a comprehensive benefits package including:

• Free virtual health care
• Robust family/fertility benefits
• 401(k) with match

Additionally, employees enjoy:

• Hybrid and remote work opportunities
• Training programs and professional development opportunities
• Education assistance

Perks and benefits also include:

• 30% off at DSW & com, plus discounts across the family of brands

Join us at Designer Brands where we believe that a great pair of shoes can change your day!