Merchandising Manager

Manager, Merchandising The Manager, Merchandising will independently set and execute the merchandise strategy and vision for key Hardlines categories end-to-end. This role delivers consumer-centric, trend-right, high-quality product assortments across all owned and operated channels — translating franchise priorities and guest insights into category-defining product lines that balance play pattern innovation, collectability, core offerings, and gifting. Distinct from the Senior Manager, who translates category-level execution across a broader scope, the Manager independently sets category strategy and owns execution end-to-end. This position will report to the Senior Manager, Merchandising and is based in Kissimmee, FL. You Will / Responsibilities: Execute the daily implementation of the product strategy for key Hardlines categories, with full decision authority within the category Develop targeted strategies for various consumer segments. Monitor the global competitive landscape and consumer zeitgeist to capture opportunity. Champion products developed in collaboration with the design teams to capitalize on trends, anticipate consumer demand, and drive product innovation in category. Develop product strategies that define play pattern intent — articulating how the consumer will interact with and derive ongoing value from the product — and establishes deliberate packaging intent across formats. Consolidate product needs from all regions and channels into one product brief, ensuring the needs of all businesses are met. Partner with Product Design and Sourcing to deliver seasonal product lines for vertical and wholesale business models that meet KPI business objectives, including sustainability goals. Lead merchant-initiated product development independent of the formal Product Design structure — authoring product briefs, identifying category gaps, and driving concept through commercialization in direct partnership with sourcing and manufacturing vendors. Execute open-market and licensed line buying to supplement the vertical product development pipeline within the category, evaluating vendor terms, exclusivity, and brand fit. Lead the ideation, negotiation, and delivery of brand collaborations and co-branded product programs within the category, with final approval authority. Lead product-focused events and activations that amplify the category offering, partnering with marketing, operations, and creative teams. Lead self-sourcing initiatives by identifying, evaluating, and onboarding new supplier partners for the category. Own the end-to-end product lifecycle for the category, from concept through commercialization, ensuring product development and sampling deliver against financial targets, innovation, sustainability, and regulatory requirements. Serve as the category ambassador across cross-functional teams. Manage direct report(s), if applicable, with immediate feedback on performance, weekly touch bases, and regular development and coaching. Actively participate in conversations with sourcing to cost the line and run financial scenarios. Actively participate in conversations with design across all product-line activities and key milestone meetings. You Will Have / Required Qualifications: 5–7 years of progressive experience in Hardlines Merchandising. Demonstrated hands-on Hardlines merchandising and product development experience across 3D categories, including familiarity with distinct manufacturing, regulatory, and quality-control requirements. Experience independently building an omni-channel product line for a category or categories of business. Experience developing play pattern briefs and packaging intent strategies across Hardlines categories, with fluency in how packaging format decisions directly impact consumer perception, purchase behavior, and collecting engagement. Ability to independently drive execution against a financial plan. Strong interpersonal skills and ability to influence a diverse audience, including experience working with external partners and business owners. Ability to build and foster collaborative partnerships across functions and departments. Required Education: Bachelor's Degree, or equivalent combination of education. Benefits Disney offers a rewards package to help you live your best life. This includes health and savings benefits, educational opportunities and special extras that only Disney can provide. Learn more about our benefits and perks. Pay Transparency The hiring range for this position in Kissimmee, FL is $111,700.00 to $149,700.00 per year. The base pay actually offered will take into account internal equity and also may vary depending on the candidate's geographic region, job-related knowledge, skills, and experience among other factors. A bonus and/or long-term incentive units may be provided as part of the compensation package, in addition to the full range of medical, financial, and/or other benefits, dependent on the level and position offered. This position is with Disney Global Product Dev & Creative, which is part of a business we call Disney Consumer Products. Disney Global Product Dev & Creative is an equal opportunity employer. Applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, sexual orientation, gender identity, disability or protected veteran status. Disney champions a business environment where ideas and decisions from all people help us grow, innovate, create the best stories and be relevant in a constantly evolving world. The Walt Disney Company, together with its subsidiaries and affiliates, is a leading diversified international family entertainment and media enterprise that includes three core business segments: Disney Entertainment, ESPN, and Disney Experiences. From humble beginnings as a cartoon studio in the 1920s to its preeminent name in the entertainment industry today, Disney proudly continues its legacy of creating world-class stories and experiences for every member of the family. Disney's stories, characters and experiences reach consumers and guests from every corner of the globe. With operations in more than 40 countries, our employees and cast members work together to create entertainment experiences that are both universally and locally cherished. The Walt Disney Studios