Project Manager - Merchandising

About the role

Responsible for leading the planning, coordination, and execution of Merchandising initiatives in support of the Category Management strategy and implementation roadmap. Drives end-to-end delivery of assortment changes, supplier transitions, new product launches, and process improvements across the nationwide branch and DC network while ensuring consistency, scalability, and minimal disruption to field operations.

Responsibilities

• Leads end-to-end planning and execution of cross-functional Category Management initiatives, including new product introductions, assortment changes, supplier transitions, category resets, and branch-level implementation projects.
• Ensures projects are delivered on time, within scope, on budget, and with minimal defects.
• Manages branch-level transitions, including item exits, new item introductions, space optimization, and innovation pilots.
• Proactively identifies risks, develops mitigation strategies, and minimizes disruption to branch showrooms and warehouse operations.
• Develops and maintains standardized plans, communication vehicles, and execution instructions for merchandising changes, including placement guidance and supporting materials to ensure consistent rollout across the branch network.
• Captures space planning and new concept development in partnership with internal teams, Category Management, and key suppliers.
• Supports the creation and maintenance of consistent, repeatable approaches for executing assortment and supplier changes across the branch and DC network.
• Builds strong relationships with the field organization and drives continuous improvement by applying merchandising best practices to enhance execution quality, scalability, and performance of all showroom sets.

Requirements

Typically requires BS/BA in a related discipline. Generally 2-5 years of experience in a related field OR MS/MA and generally 2-4 years of experience in a related field. Certification is required in some areas.

Qualifications

• Proven experience supporting merchandising planning and execution roles across large nationwide retailers or distributors.
• Demonstrated track record of building processes, managing cross-functional projects, and driving execution with field/branch teams.
• Experience building strong cross-departmental relationships and applying merchandising best practices to enhance execution quality and scalability.
• Strong critical thinking, problem-solving, and analytical skills with the ability to adapt to an ever-changing environment.
• Excellent written and verbal communication and presentation skills, with the ability to influence and collaborate across multiple departments.
• Advanced knowledge of Microsoft Office (Excel required; Visio and Smartsheet a plus) and project management tools.
• Experience with Space Planning by Blue Yonder. Experience with IKB or Macro Space Planning is a plus.