Associate, Merchandise Product Developer

Company Description

We create world-class content, which we distribute across our portfolio of film, television, and streaming, and bring to life through our theme parks and consumer experiences. We own and operate leading entertainment and news brands, including NBC, NBC News, MSNBC, CNBC, NBC Sports, Telemundo, NBC Local Stations, Bravo, USA Network, and Peacock, our premium ad-supported streaming service. We produce and distribute premier filmed entertainment and programming through Universal Filmed Entertainment Group and Universal Studio Group, and have world-renowned theme parks and attractions through Universal Destinations & Experiences. NBCUniversal is a subsidiary of Comcast Corporation. 

Each day Universal Studios Hollywood creates unforgettable experiences for our guests from around the world. We bring to life the ultimate Hollywood experience with our real working movie studio and heart-pounding rides, shows and attractions that put you inside some of the world’s most popular movies and TV shows. USH offers something for everyone from thrill seekers to movie lovers to family fun for all ages. Our Team Members are passionate individuals who create memorable moments whether it’s on the studio lot, or in our conference rooms, theaters, or kitchens. We believe in the talent of our team members. It’s our passion and commitment to excellence that drives our business to succeed in everything we do across the park. We believe in a culture of family and fun, here you can make a difference and build your career! 

Here you can be your authentic self. As a company uniquely positioned to educate, entertain and empower through our platforms, Comcast NBCUniversal stands for including everyone. Our Diversity, Equity and Inclusion initiatives, coupled with our Corporate Social Responsibility work, is informed by our employees, audiences, park guests and the communities in which we live. We strive to foster a diverse, equitable and inclusive culture where our employees feel supported, embraced and heard. Together, we’ll continue to create and deliver content that reflects the current and ever-changing face of the world.  

Job Description

Responsible for: product development process implementation, category & line planning, vendor selection & management, sourcing & quality execution, and financial ownership & pricing matrix.  Responsible for creating innovative product that supports the Brand vision, and the leadership and development of direct reports.

Responsibilities:

• Product development process implementation:  Ensures all aspects of product development steps are achieved and product is delivered and ready for point of purchase (including managing art-to-product, sample creation, fit sessions/paint master/tooling, where applicable, social and safety compliance and quality). Coordinates between vendors, suppliers, and Product Design & Development to facilitate kickoffs, submittals, and approvals executed on time.
• Category & line planning: Establishes calendar development timelines and production timing for specific items. Executes seasonal and long-range plans, based on strong understanding of the past and present product performance and landscape. Supports execution of key milestone meetings, working in collaboration with Brand Product Manager, Planning, and Product Design & Development. Maintains data in tracking system – buy plans, assortment sheets – and manages multiple projects per season.
• Vendor selection & management: Decides business model (direct to factory or vendor) and vendor selection, with input and feedback from other team members. Works cross functionally with Product Design & Development to ensure production ready tech packs and control drawings provided to vendor. Monitors production work in progress and manages all reports/working files with vendors for development. Facilitates timely communication with internal and external parties.
• Sourcing & quality execution: Initiates continuous product      sourcing for international and domestic vendors and negotiates with resources to reduce cost of goods, minimum order quantities, and increase the flow of goods. Monitors competitors, product innovation and market dynamics.
• Financial ownership & pricing matrix: responsible for specific category performance to include per cap, COG, and inventory goals.  Responsible for hitting delivery dates to ensure these goals are met. 
• Responsible for training and development of Associate Buyer 
• Responsible for collaborating and partnering with Product Design & Development on product development.
• Ability to shift priorities quickly