Merchandising Specialist

Merchandising Specialist (Creative Design) Merchandising Specialist (Creative Design) Merchandising Specialist A LITTLE ABOUT US Links Unlimited®, Inc. is one of Cincinnati's largest privately held companies and a leader in branded merchandise, and creative merchandising solutions. We partner with some of the world's leading brands to develop merchandise programs that bring brands to life through product procurement, decoration management, warehousing, fulfillment, and creative services. We're looking for a Merchandising Specialist who thrives at the intersection of creativity and execution. This role is ideal for someone who enjoys discovering innovative products, building thoughtful merchandising solutions, and managing the details that bring great ideas to life. Beyond simply finding great products, this position requires someone who can balance creative thinking with operational discipline to ensure every project is delivered accurately, efficiently, and on time. If you're looking for a role where you can take ownership, make an impact, and see your ideas move from concept to completion, we'd love to hear from you. What You'll Be Doing Develop creative merchandising solutions that align with client brands, objectives, budgets, and timelines. Source premium retail products, promotional merchandise, custom products, and POS materials that balance creativity, quality, functionality, and cost. Source and manage custom retail fixtures, displays, and merchandising hardware, partnering with suppliers to deliver functional, brand-compliant retail solutions. Research emerging products, supplier capabilities, and industry trends to bring fresh ideas and innovative solutions to client programs. Prepare product recommendations, pricing, samples, and merchandising presentations that support client objectives. Manage merchandising projects from sourcing through production and delivery, coordinating artwork approvals, purchase orders, production schedules, and shipping timelines. Build strong relationships with supplier partners to negotiate pricing, identify sourcing opportunities, and ensure on-time delivery. Partner with Sales, Creative Services, Client Success, Operations, and Logistics to bring merchandising concepts from ideation through final execution. Monitor project status, anticipate challenges, and proactively communicate solutions before they impact the client. Maintain accurate product, pricing, supplier, and project information within company systems. Continuously seek opportunities to improve merchandising processes, elevate client programs, and enhance the overall customer experience. What We're Looking For 3-5+ years of merchandising experience, preferably supporting beverage alcohol brands, including on-premise/off-premise activations and POS merchandising programs. Experience sourcing Point-of-Sale (POS) materials, custom retail fixtures and displays, promotional merchandise, and branded products for on-premise and/or off-premise marketing programs. Strong product sourcing, vendor management, and negotiation skills, including pricing, production timelines, and supplier coordination. Proven ability to manage multiple merchandising projects simultaneously while balancing creativity, quality, budgets, and deadlines. Excellent organizational, communication, and relationship-building skills with exceptional attention to detail. Proficiency in Microsoft Excel and Microsoft Office; experience with ERP, procurement, or order management systems is a plus. Self-motivated, resourceful, and comfortable taking ownership from concept through execution in a fast-paced environment. Success in This Role Balances creativity with execution--discovering innovative products while managing the details that bring merchandising programs to life. Thrives in a fast-paced environment, managing multiple projects with accuracy, urgency, and attention to detail. Takes ownership, solves problems proactively, and builds strong relationships with suppliers and cross-functional teams. Is naturally curious, continuously seeking new products, trends, and ideas that elevate client programs. Physical Requirements: Prolonged periods of sitting at a desk and working on a computer. Ability to travel up to 25% of the time. Compensation & Benefits: Competitive pay Medical, Dental and Vision Insurance Paid Time Off Paid Holidays Employee discount program On-Site Gym Paid maternity/paternity leave Career advancement Profit Sharing Bonus 401(k) with company match #J-18808-Ljbffr