Join the JanSport & Eastpak FamilyIn 1967, three friends were living in Washington State: Skip, an outdoor enthusiast; Murray, an engineer; and Jan, an accomplish seamstress. So, when Murray won a timely design award from the Alcoa Company for creating the first adjustable aluminum frame for backpacks, a bit of instant karma began to take flight. Murray asked his girlfriend, Jan, to create a backpack pattern for his new aluminum frame and promised her that if he was a success and took off, he’d name the company after her. It was, he did, and the JanSport brand came to life. JanSport has been part of your journey through life ever since.Since 1952, Eastpak has been built to resist. Starting off making long-lasting, durable gear for the US military, Eastpak has transformed into a company that has allowed individuals to express themselves and inspire positive resistance through the bag they carry. Over the years, we’ve redefined the rules of the bag and luggage design while seeking out challenges that disrupt our timeless design and allow for greater collaboration, all while remaining authentic and consistent for what we stand for.Together, JanSport & Eastpak continue to reinvent and reimagine high-quality products that equip you for life’s next adventure.Unless prohibited by applicable law, this position requires proof of being fully vaccinated for COVID-19 on the first day of employment, absent need for medical or religious accommodation or other exemption as allowed by state or local law. Further information will be provided during the recruitment process.Job Title: Director, Merchandising (Global JanSport & Eastpak NORA)As the Director, Merchandising you will collaborate cross functionally to consolidate an aligned seasonal global range plan. Informed by consumer and marketplace insights, you will drive segmentation and distribution plans. You will communicate needs with global product team. You will own strategic product management plans and product lifecycles of said plans. You will curate product assortments to drive full-price sales. You will author seasonal brand roadmap with global product and marketing teams. You must have a thorough understanding of how the product assortment impacts the P& L. You will drive specific KPI’s to achieve targets (style count, productivity, global adoption %, etc).As the Director, Merchandising you will lead a team of direct reports and cultivate high performing talent. You will ensure teams are clear on objectives and collaborate to ensure success. You will provide coaching and help others to achieve their best while motivating others to higher levels of achievement. You will influence others through persuasion, deliver relevant information with confidence, and build a strong network of relationships to deliver results. This role will be asked to lead with a first to market mindset and a passion for innovation and will be relied on to ensure the value proposition of JanSport and Eastpak are being upheld while maintaining brand DNA.How You Will Make a Difference
Product Merchandising Strategy :
Lead and deliver a strategic approach for NORA Packs.
Drive growth and revenue in Direct-to-Consumer and Wholesale channels.
Foster shared global assortment across all regions.
Assortment Planning and Alignment :
Collaborate with Planning to build global assortment plans.
Understand regional needs and reconcile them with financial plans.
Ensure alignment of assortment and line plans at key milestones.
Brand Confidence and Market Expertise :
Inspire confidence in the brand.
Demonstrate expertise in consumer behavior and market dynamics.
Conduct market research and interpret competitive opportunities.
Seasonal Vision and Framework :
Drive global segmentation for sustainable growth.
Bring seasonal vision to life through cross-functional collaboration.
Apply consumer, product, and competitor insights to long-term planning.
Leadership and Team Development :
Provide strategic direction and mentorship to managers.
Cultivate a culture of innovation and collaboration.
Work closely with stakeholders and manage projects effectively.
Market Awareness and Decision-Making :
Stay informed about competitor offerings and global trends.
Make brand-right decisions based on marketplace opportunities.
Franchise Management and Inclusion :
Drive key initiatives supporting franchise management.
Champion a respectful and inclusive work environment.
What You Will Bring:
A relevant bachelor’s degree (preferred) or equivalent relevant experience
10+ years of experience in apparel as a business leader with major business driving functions including product management, merchandising, or product development
5+ years management experience and success w/ cross functional partnerships.
Industry Expertise and Market Knowledge :
Deep understanding of the industry, acting as a market expert for the business.
Ability to navigate industry trends and dynamics effectively.
Financial Acumen and Profitability Analysis :
Strong grasp of financial metrics and profitability analysis.
Skill in making data-driven decisions to enhance business performance.
Product Passion and Consumer-Centric Approach :
Instinct and passion for product development.
Balancing art and science to create consumer-focused solutions.
Collaboration and Leadership Skills :
Excellent collaboration abilities across management levels.
Comfortable presenting to large groups and influencing others.
Innovation and Strategic Thinking :
Inspiring a culture of innovation within teams.
Proven ability to think strategically, grow categories, and bring impactful ideas to market.
Free To Be, Inclusion & DiversityAs a purpose-led, performance driven company, we strive to foster a culture of belonging based on respect, connection, openness and authenticity. We are committed to building and maintaining a workplace that celebrates the diversity of our associates, allowing them to bring their authentic selves to work every day.What’s in it For YouWe’re in the business of unleashing human potential, driven by the ideas, energy and commitment of our people. That’s why we offer comprehensive benefits that encourage mental, physical and financial well-being for all VF associates. When it comes to benefits, we’re the total package. Go to MyVFBenefits.com and click on “Looking to Join VF?” to learn more.Our Parent Company, VF CorporationVF is one of the world’s largest apparel, footwear and accessories companies connecting people to the lifestyles, activities and experiences they cherish through our family of iconic outdoor, active and workwear brands. At the heart of our journey lies our company-wide purpose: We power movements of sustainable and active lifestyles for the betterment of people and our planet. This is our purpose. It’s the reason we come to work every day. It’s a commitment shared by our global associates across all brands. Our purpose unites us and leads us to pursue our goals, together. This is our calling. Learn more at vfc.comWe just have one question. Are you in?Hiring Range :$155,520.00 USD - $194,400.00 USD annuallyIncentive Potential : This position is eligible for additional compensation awards that may include an annual incentive plan, sales incentive, or commission potential. Specific details of the additional compensation eligibility for this position will be provided during the recruiting and interview process.Benefits at VF Corporation : You can review a general overview of each benefit program offered, including this year's medical plan rates on www.MyVFbenefits.com and by clicking Looking to Join VF? Detailed information on your benefits will be provided during the hiring process.P lease note, our hiring ranges are determined and built from market pay data. In determining the specific compensation for this position, we comply with all local, state, and federal laws.At VF, we value a diverse, inclusive workforce and we provide equal employment opportunity for all applicants and employees. All qualified applicants for employment will be considered without regard to an individual’s race, color, sex, gender identity, gender expression, religion, age, national origin or ancestry, citizenship, physical or mental disability, medical condition, family care status, marital status, domestic partner status, sexual orientation, genetic information, military or veteran status, or any other basis protected by federal, state or local laws. If you are unable to submit your application because of incompatible assistive technology or a disability, please contact us at peopleservices@vfc.com . VF will reasonably accommodate qualified individuals with disabilities to the extent required by applicable law.Pursuant to all applicable local Fair Chance Ordinance requirements, including but not limited to the San Francisco Fair Chance Ordinance, VF will consider for employment qualified applicants with arrest and conviction records.VF Diversity Vision Statement
VF is committed to creating an inclusive environment that welcomes and values the differences among all of our associates, customers, suppliers and the communities in which we live and conduct business. The continued success and growth of VF is enhanced through initiatives that promote diversity throughout VF around the world.VF is an equal employment opportunity/ affirmative action employer of minorities, females, protected veterans and the disabled. VF is committed to providing equal opportunities in employment, and treating our VF associates and VF applicants without discrimination on the basis of their race, color, gender, age, national origin, religion, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, marital status, citizenship, disability, protected veteran status, HIV/AIDS status, or any other legally protected factor.
Full-time