Sourcing Associate

Position Summary

The Sourcing Associate oversees the production of Private Brands or categories manufactured exclusively for Belk, from initial concept sample through delivery.  They ensure the production of the line for their assigned brand(s) or category is managed effectively and efficiently.  Partner with the Sourcing Manager and Brand Manager to ensure brand aesthetic is maintained and merchandise meets or surpasses quality, margin and delivery targets. The Sourcing Associate oversees the production of a Private Label Brand or category manufactured exclusively for Belk, from initial concept sample through delivery.  They ensure the production of the line for their assigned brand(s) or category is managed effectively and efficiently.  Partner with the Sourcing Manager and Brand Manager to ensure brand aesthetic is maintained and merchandise meets or surpasses quality, margin and delivery targets.  

Essential Functions

• Partner with sourcing/brand manager as well as overseas vendors to understand vision and strategy for the brand or category in the area of responsibility and to achieve margin plans. 
• Support and execute to the supplier matrix.  Work closely with internal and overseas partners to manage the timeline and total production process for their assigned private brands or categories from initial concept sample through delivery
• Communicate target costs, quantities by style and negotiate costs to achieve competitive pricing and overall financial goals.
• Travel overseas to meet and partner with agent on product development.  Work directly with vendors to develop product where core competencies align with strategy.
• Work closely with the Color & Product Integrity team to ensure that all products meet all quality and safety standards. 
• Partner with cross functional team (CFT) including, but not limited to, sourcing manager, brand manager, designer, textile designer, technical designer and color team on all approvals.
• Recap, finalize, and communicate style placement to CFT as appropriate.

• Complete follow up with suppliers on placements in line with time and action calendar to ensure product specifications, quality standards, deadlines and deliveries are met as contracted.
• Monitor style set up, purchase order creation and maintenance processes with bottom line accountability for the integrity and accuracy of all data entered into PLM.
• Coordinate with logistics and suppliers to resolve shipping issues.

• Accountable for supporting a learning culture that will empower and leverage a collaborative team environment.
• Responsible for linking team’s work to support company mission, vision, values, goals, and strategies.
• Other duties as assigned by manager or required by business need

Position Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree in related field or equivalent business experience.
• Minimum of 4-5 yrs experience in product development, sourcing or its equivalent.
• Knowledge of the product manufacturing techniques, fabrication, and costing components that impact product line development.
• Excellent written and verbal communication and negotiation skills.
• Detail oriented, flexible, self-motivated, and able to lead others.
• Available and able to travel internationally and domestically.
• Ability to lift and carry up to 25lbs. and able to see and distinguish colors.

• Sourcing Manager

   For reasonable accommodation information for an ADAAA qualified disability please see Belk Associate Handbook for policy and procedures.