Senior Category Merchandising Manager (Kids Apparel) [AQ-19232]

About the role

Aquent is thrilled to partner with a world-renowned global athletic and lifestyle brand, connecting you to an unparalleled opportunity to drive significant impact. This organization is a leader in its industry, dedicated to inspiring athletes and consumers worldwide through innovative products and experiences. As a partner, Aquent offers you the chance to contribute directly to the success of an iconic brand, shaping the future of a key apparel category and influencing what millions experience. Step into a pivotal role where you will lead the product merchandising strategy for a dynamic apparel category. This is a unique chance to take the reins, shape a full season cycle from vision to execution, and leave a lasting mark on product offerings in the North America market. You will be at the forefront of strategic decisions, translating marketplace insights into impactful assortments and guiding critical business choices. This role is ideal for a visionary leader ready to articulate a clear direction, inspire collaboration, and thrive in a fast-paced environment where your initiatives drive significant business outcomes. Client Description: Global leader in athletic footwear, apparel, and equipment. Our client focuses on innovation, performance, and marketing, partnering with top athletes and teams. The company emphasizes sustainability and digital advancements to enhance the sports experience.

Responsibilities

• Lead and mentor a merchandising team, serving as the primary expert and guiding force for your category.
• Spearhead the product merchandising strategy for a key apparel category, defining its vision, direction, and long-term roadmap.
• Collaborate closely and daily with Product, Planning, and Marketplace teams to seamlessly align assortment, product flow, and go-to-market initiatives.
• Develop and champion a compelling vision for apparel, effectively influencing and securing buy-in from critical stakeholders across the organization.
• Transform deep marketplace insights into impactful strategic assortment decisions tailored for the North America market.
• Deliver persuasive and data-driven recommendations to cross-functional partners and senior leadership, driving pivotal business choices and strategic direction.

Requirements

• 8+ years of progressive merchandising experience, with a strong preference for apparel.
• Bachelor’s degree.
• Proven people leadership and team management experience is essential.
• Strong command and understanding of North America marketplace dynamics and consumer trends.

Qualifications

• Background specifically in kids apparel and/or sports/athletic apparel.
• Account-facing experience, demonstrating an understanding of client needs and market demands.
• Exposure to product creation processes, from concept to launch.
• Prior experience working with a large, globally recognized athletic or lifestyle brand.

Skills

• Fluency in Excel, PowerPoint, and Keynote.
• Polished, impactful presentation and communication skills.

Benefits

• Subsidized health, vision, and dental plans.
• Paid sick leave.
• Retirement plans with a match.
• Free online training through Aquent Gymnasium.