Associate Sourcing Manager, Fabric Development - West Elm

About the Role

As an Associate Sourcing Manager, you will assist in the development and implementation of sourcing strategies, both short (seasonal/annual) and long term (3-5yrs) for the assigned product category(s). You will research, identify and develop production sourcing markets and suppliers that meet the product supply requirements of the assigned categories.

This role is in the Dumbo Brooklyn office 4x/week.

Responsibilities

• Collaborate with the design team and overseas offices/suppliers in assigned category(s) to: 
• Execute creative designs 
• Ensure product quality 
• Meet on-time delivery 
• Support speed to market 
• Maximize profitability 
• Minimize risk, e.g., diversifying country and supplier placement
• Understand the global landscape and opportunities
• Implement a product sourcing strategy in the assigned category(s) appropriate for each source region considering such factors as: 
  • Country competencies 
  • Supplier capabilities, capacities, and growth plans 
  • Country and vendor risk 
• Partner with the design team during the development process to identify source markets and suppliers for requested materials, finishes, and products in the assigned product category(s).
• Manage sourcing processes and procedures in the assigned category(s) to successfully execute and deliver WSI products on time, which meet the design, quality, and value mission. This should include the following: 
  • Vendor Research and Development - Capabilities, capacity, and growth plans 
  • Material Research and Development 
  • Comparative Studies - Products, costs, and risk 
  • Cost Negotiations based on parameters from merchandising
  • Production placement and reservations - (based on information from planning and merchandising) 
• Troubleshoot seasonal product issues related to the development
• Focus efforts on the management of core and top seasonal investments
• Update and maintain accurate product information via our PLM (Product Lifecycle Management) system
• Partners with overseas offices and suppliers in managing the assigned category(s). 
• A close working partnership with buyers, design, and inventory. 
• Coordinates with all support areas on new developments: QA, Engineering, Testing, Inspections, Packaging, and Inventory. 
• Close coordination with overseas offices, suppliers, and service providers. 

Criteria

•  4+ years of college education (BA/BS)
• Minimum 2-year experience in offshore sourcing, buying/merchandising in a retail or manufacturing organization
• Strong knowledge of sourcing markets
• Travel required

Our Culture & Values

We believe that taking care of our people is vital to our success and we strive to offer equitable and transparent practices for all. We prioritize connection, growth, and wellbeing.

People First

Putting People First means investing in overall well-being and opportunities to grow and advance within the organization. Depending on the position and location, here are a few highlights of what benefits may be available:

 

Benefits

• A generous discount on all WSI brands
• A 401(k) plan and other investment opportunities
• Paid vacations, holidays, and time off to volunteer
• Health benefits, dental and vision insurance, including same-sex domestic partner benefits
• Tax-free commuter benefits
• A wellness program that supports your physical, financial and emotional health

Continued Learning

• In-person and online learning opportunities through WSI University
• Cross-brand and cross-function career opportunities
• Resources for self-development
• Advisor (Mentor) program
• Career development workshops, learning programs, and speaker series  

WSI will not now or in the future commence an immigration case or "sponsor" an individual for this position (for example, H-1B or other employment-based immigration).

This role is not eligible for relocation assistance.

The expected starting pay range for this position is $78,000 - $92,000. Applicable pay ranges may differ across markets. Actual pay will be determined based on experience and other job-related factors permitted by law. In addition to competitive pay, compensation may include a variety of other components like benefits, paid time off, merit, and bonus opportunities.