Sourcing Assistant

About the role

The Sample Intake Coordinator (Sourcing Assistant) is responsible for the receipt, organization, tracking, maintenance, and distribution of product samples that support the sourcing, merchandising, and product development processes. This role serves as a key operational partner by ensuring samples are accurately logged, stored, maintained, and delivered to merchant and sourcing teams in a timely manner. The ideal candidate is highly organized, detail‑oriented, and able to manage multiple priorities in a fast‑paced retail environment. This position offers an excellent opportunity to gain exposure to sourcing, merchandising, product development, and cross‑functional retail operations.

Responsibilities

• Receive, inspect, and document incoming product samples from vendors and suppliers.
• Maintain accurate sample tracking records and inventory logs.
• Organize and store samples in designated locations to ensure easy retrieval and proper maintenance.
• Coordinate the delivery, pickup, and redistribution of samples to merchant, sourcing, design, and product development partners.
• Monitor sample inventory and proactively follow up on overdue or missing samples.
• Prepare samples for meetings, line reviews, presentations, and product evaluations.
• Ensure sample rooms and storage areas remain organized, clean, and compliant with company standards.
• Assist in identifying damaged, outdated, or excess samples and facilitate proper disposition.
• Support shipping and receiving activities, including packaging and labeling samples for internal and external distribution.
• Communicate professionally with vendors and internal business partners regarding sample status and requests.
• Perform data entry and maintain records within applicable systems and spreadsheets.
• Assist with special projects and administrative tasks that support sourcing and merchandising operations.

Qualifications

• High school diploma or equivalent.
• 1 year of administrative, retail, inventory, warehouse, logistics, or related experience (preferred).
• Proficiency with Microsoft Office applications, including Outlook, Excel, and Teams.
• Strong attention to detail and organizational skills.
• Ability to prioritize work and manage multiple requests simultaneously.
• Effective verbal and written communication skills.
• Ability to work independently and collaboratively within a team environment.
• Associate degree or coursework in business, merchandising, fashion, retail, supply chain, or a related field (preferred).
• Experience with inventory tracking systems or retail operations (preferred).
• Familiarity with merchandising, sourcing, or product development processes (preferred).

Physical Requirements

• Ability to lift, move, and transport sample packages weighing up to 30 pounds.
• Ability to stand, walk, bend, and reach throughout the workday.
• Ability to move frequently between office, sample storage, and meeting areas.

Benefits

• Medical, dental, and vision insurance starting on day one.
• Term life insurance.
• Paid vacation and holidays.
• 401(k) Savings Plan with company match.
• Associate discount on merchandise across all Catalyst Brands.
• Opportunities for growth and development through training programs and advancement pathways.
• Collaborative and supportive workplace culture that values teamwork and employee success.

About Catalyst Brands

Catalyst Brands reflects the bringing together the rich heritages of our brands with modern excitement and a new vision for success. Five iconic brands came together under a unified powerhouse portfolio to celebrate the essence of American style. We leverage our rich history, resources, and best‑in‑class industry talent to further build the success of our brands. At Catalyst we are united in one shared purpose: we exist to ignite America’s most beloved retail brands to make fashion accessible to all.

Pay

USD $20.00 – USD $25.00 per hour.