Retail Initiatives Specialist (Remote)

At Designer Brands, we are the proud parent company of DSW Designer Shoe Warehouse, The Shoe Company, and Rubino, operating nearly 675 stores across North America and a billion-dollar digital commerce business. We lead the footwear industry with a diverse portfolio of iconic brands, including Topo Athletic, Keds, Vince Camuto, Kelly & Katie, Jessica Simpson, Lucky Brand, Mix No. 6, Crown Vintage, and others. With expertise in design, production, and sourcing, we create on-trend footwear and accessories, delivered through a robust omni-channel infrastructure and national wholesale distribution. At Designer Brands, we are committed to fostering a culture of collaboration, innovation, and inclusivity, where each employee’s unique perspective contributes to our success. Anchored by our core values of “We Love What We Do,” “We Own What We Do,” “We Do What’s Right,” and “We Belong,” we continuously drive forward together, building a future where everyone can put their best foot forward. 

 

The Opportunity

Are you ready to be part of a team that shapes the future of retail experiences? At Designer Brands, we believe in creating memorable moments for our customers and associates. As the Initiatives Specialist, you'll play a pivotal role in supporting and enhancing our external partnerships within DSW US stores. From insole and shoe repair to shoe protection partners, you'll be at the heart of our innovative retail initiatives.

Reports To: Director, Retail Experience

What You'll Be Doing

In this dynamic role, you'll:

• Build and nurture relationships with external partners, including insole, shoe repair, and shoe protection partners.
• Execute and implement partnership strategies and tactics across DSW US stores.
• Communicate effectively with partners and stores, ensuring smooth operations and clear direction.
• Lead and manage projects to support the rollout of new store partnerships and initiatives.
• Act as a liaison between DSW US stores and external partners, fostering collaboration and problem-solving.
• Monitor partnership results and recommend solutions to enhance day-to-day business.
• Ensure timely and budget-friendly completion of partnership deliverables.
• Collaborate regularly with partners to address business challenges and find solutions, ensuring the best in-store experience for associates and customers.
• Review partnership performance weekly, staying informed about trends, performance, and opportunities.

What You'll Need

To thrive in this role, you'll need:

• Passion and curiosity about the customer and retail experience.
• Strong organizational skills and the ability to articulate, analyze metrics, and influence results.
• Proficiency with technology, including MS Office and Adobe Suite.
• Innovative problem-solving skills and a proactive approach.
• Self-motivation and the ability to work independently and as part of a team.
• Effective communication skills with all levels of management.
• Consistent collaboration with cross-functional teams.
• Multitasking abilities to handle multiple projects and tasks simultaneously.
• Adaptability and openness to change.
• Accountability for decisions and actions.
• Commitment to personal growth and development, with the ability to deliver and receive feedback.
• Willingness to travel to markets for project implementation.

Minimum Experience

• 3+ years of operations or corporate office experience preferred.
• Proven success in managing multiple priorities.
• Excellent communicatio