Company Overview
JOB DESCRIPTION
Williams-Sonoma Inc. (WSI) is a leading kitchenware and home furnishings company dedicated to enhancing the quality of our customers lives at home. We put the customer at the center of everything we do, every day, and a short but important list of corporate values guides our actions and decisions, we pride ourselves on our commitment to People First, Customer, Quality, Shareholders, Integrity and Corporate Responsibilities.
Job Description
Williams-Sonoma Inc. is seeking a dynamic Merchandiser to act as the vital link between our San Francisco-based team and our factories. In this role, you will manage seasonal developments, vendor relations, Time & Action (T&A) plans, and key communications. You will also collaborate closely with our Quality Assurance (QA) team to support both our US-based team and factory needs.
Key Responsibilities Include
Product Development:
- Familiar with T&A master calendar and key dates for product samples.
- Monitor product testing and protocol adherence with factories.
- Communicate target costs and sample ETD to vendors; follow up weekly.
- Collaborate with Furniture Engineers on new developments and pricing.
- Ensure vendors have approved samples before production.
- Daily updates on product development, testing, photo samples, and MCS.
- Prepare blue file information: testing reports, PDS, CAD, AI, PCIS.
- Create ERFs for samples, coordinate with forwarders for pick-ups.
- Provide accurate information to Product Information Specialist.
- Troubleshoot production issues; ensure on-time delivery.
- Monitor drop/approval rates for development seasons.
Vendor Relations And Capacity Management
- Facilitate onboarding of new vendors.
- Build strong relationships with key vendors.
- Report factory issues (strikes, holidays) to Merchandise Manager.
- Monitor and improve vendor performance (scorecard).
- Oversee PPO/PO process to manage order capacity.
Sourcing
- Identify new products/factories via trade shows and contacts.
- Understand factory capabilities.
- Monitor retests and shipping schedules; troubleshoot delays.
- Manage push-out/pull-up/cancellation requests with vendors.
- Record cost and MOQ changes across factories.
Development Trips
- Prepare documents and samples for team visits.
Liaise With QA Team
- Arrange PPM schedules across factories.
The Ideal Candidate Should Possess
Experience and Knowledge:
- Proficiency in sourcing and product development.
- Basic understanding of manufacturing processes in the Tabletop/Furniture sector.
- At least 3 years of practical experience in Furniture products.
Skills
- Strong communication abilities.
- Expertise in costing and negotiation.
- Effective presentation skills.
- Competence in factory evaluation and vendor management.
- Full professional proficiency in English.
- Excellent organizational skills.
- Advanced computer skills, including proficiency in spreadsheets, word-processing programs, and email.
Character Traits
- Sense of urgency and ability to prioritize tasks.
- Team-oriented mindset.
- Attention to detail and high accuracy.
- Service-oriented attitude.
- Strong interpersonal skills.
Company Benefits
At Williams-Sonoma, we value our associates and offer a comprehensive benefits package, including:
- A competitive salary that reflects your experience and skills.
- Comprehensive health insurance plans, including medical, dental, and vision coverage. Annual Health checkup. Employee Assistance Program with Cigna's professionals.
- Flexibility to work from home and generous paid time off.
- Opportunities for continuous learning and career growth through training programs and workshops.
- We prioritize the well-being and future security of our employees. We are proud to affirm that we fully comply with the Social Insurance Law, ensuring that all our associates are covered, and your pensions are safeguarded. This compliance reflects our dedication to providing a secure and supportive work environment, where every team member can feel confident about their future.
Company Culture
Our company culture is built on the principles of:
- Collaboration: We believe in the power of teamwork and open communication.
- Innovation: We encourage creative thinking and innovative solutions.
- Diversity and Inclusion: We are committed to creating an inclusive environment where everyone feels valued and respected.
- Community Engagement: We actively participate in community service and support various social causes.
Please Apply Through LinkedIn
We are excited to hear from you! To apply for this position, please submit your application through our LinkedIn page. We look forward to reviewing your application.
Please note that this position is not eligible for visa sponsorship.
About Us
Founded in 1956, Williams-Sonoma, Inc. is the premier specialty retailer of home furnishings in the United States, Canada, Puerto Rico, Australia, United Kingdom and the rest of the world with franchise partnerships. Our family of brands are Williams-Sonoma, Pottery Barn, Pottery Barn Kids, PBteen, West Elm, Williams-Sonoma Home, Rejuvenation, and Mark and Graham. Our passion for high-quality products, functional design, outstanding customer service, enhancing the lives of our customers and the communities remains as our core values.
Today, we are a USD 5 billion company, with a multi-brand, multi-channel, global enterprise supported by state-of-the-art technology and some of the most talented teams in retailing - and we're always looking for new energy and ideas.
The South East Asia team is an inclusive employer where we recruit and provide employees with fair opportunities on the basis of merit, regardless of age, race, gender, religion, marital status and family responsibilities, or disability.
