Product Development Assistant

Be part of an amazing story.

Macy’s is more than just a store. We’re a story. One that’s captured the hearts and minds of America for more than 160 years. A story about innovations and traditions…about inspiring stores and irresistible products…about the excitement of the Macy’s 4th of July Fireworks, and the wonder of the Thanksgiving Day Parade. We’ve been part of memorable moments and milestones for countless customers and colleagues. Those stories are part of what makes this such a special place to work.  

Job Overview

The Assistant, Direct Import supports the smooth execution of direct import processes and total toys and maintains effective communication across teams. Responsibilities include the setup of new suppliers and factories, securing all costing and customs details and confirming order placement with the merchants and vendors. For Private Brand toys, additional responsibilities include item creation and maintenance, sample tracking and supporting cost negotiations. 

What You Will Do

For Direct Import & Backstage Toys: 

• Support Sr. Manager by building Standing Operating Procedures (SOPs) to support the various direct import processes as new ones are implemented. 
• Work with Sr. Manager and cross functional partners to ensure vendor is approved for Macy’s or submit new supplier requests and conduct onboarding. 
• Partner with merchants and vendors on costing tools and ensure accuracy of information.   
• Partner with vendor on Customs template and work with Customs team on approvals. 
• Partner with Product Integrity on Direct Import protocols to ensure testing compliance. 
• Create line list in Order Management System (OMS). 
• Finalize order details with the merchant & Sr. Manager prior to initiating purchase authorizations (PA). 
• Collaborate with the overseas Merchant to ensure that production-related activities and any PO changes are captured. 

For Private Brand toys 

• Create and maintain styles in Product Lifecycle Management (PLM) 
• Manage and track all meeting samples requested for the area of responsibility. 
• Review sample execution with the Sr. Manager 
• Create a line list in OMS. 
• Finalize order details with the Sr. Manager and initiate purchase authorizations (PA). 
• Key all assortment purchase orders (POs) and manage and track them throughout the season. 
• Collaborate with the overseas Merchant to ensure that production-related activities and any PO changes are captured. 
• Foster an environment of acceptance and respect that strengthens relationships, and ensures authentic connections with colleagues, customers, and communities. 
• Work with the Sr. Manager to update the IMU Roll-Up throughout the season. 

Skills You Will Need

Self-Starter: Demonstrates the ability to drive forward their own work and analyze potential opportunities for the business independently. 

Proficiency in MS Office Suite and PLM: Possesses advanced skills in Microsoft Office Suite and Product Lifecycle Management (PLM) software. 

Communication: Practices open and continuous communication, values keeping others informed, and presents information clearly and concisely. 

Strategic Planning: Demonstrates the ability to effectively plan and execute strategies to achieve business objectives. 

Problem-Solving: Capable of solving problems and addressing issues directly as they arise. 

Leadership and Interpersonal Skills: Exhibits excellent leadership, facilitation, and interpersonal skills, enabling effective collaboration across functional lines and at various organizational levels. 

Creative and Strategic Thinking: Able to think creatively, strategically, and technically to drive innovation and problem-solving. 

Flexibility: Adapts to a flexible schedule based on department and company needs. 

Who You Are

• Candidates with a bachelor’s degree or equivalent work experience in a related field are encouraged to apply. Prior experience in merchandising or product development, including internship experience. 
• Regularly required to sit, talk, hear; use hands/fingers to touch, handle, and feel. Occasionally required to move about the workplace and reach with hands and arms. Requires close vision. 
• Able to work a flexible schedule based on department and company needs. 

What We Can Offer You

Join a team where work is as rewarding as it is fun! We offer a dynamic, inclusive environment with competitive pay and benefits. Enjoy