Merchandising Manager, Retail Marketing

CA EMPLOYEE PRIVACY RIGHTS: MGA Entertainment is on a mission to inspire imagination and creativity through innovative toys, entertainment, and experiences that transform play into limitless possibilities. As the largest privately held toy and entertainment company in the U.S., MGA is a global leader in designing and delivering world-class consumer products that spark wonder and drive play forward. Headquartered in Los Angeles with offices worldwide, MGA’s portfolio spans a dynamic range of original and licensed brands — from toys, dolls, games, and electronics to fashion, home décor, and entertainment content including hit movies and TV series. The company is recognized for its bold approach to storytelling, trendsetting design, and deep commitment to quality. The award-winning MGA family includes fan-favorite brands such as L.O.L. Surprise!™, Little Tikes®, Rainbow High™, Bratz®, MGA’s Miniverse™, Yummiland™, CarTuned™, Wonder Factory™, BABY born®, and Zapf Creation®. To learn more, visit and follow MGA on LinkedIn, TikTok, Instagram and Facebook. Position Summary: The Merchandising Manager is responsible for the strategic development, integration, and execution of point-of-purchase (POP) merchandising programs, retail advertising initiatives, planogram standards, and trade show operations in support of global sales and business objectives.This role is a process leader without direct reports. The Manager is accountable for project execution, deadline adherence, global cross-functional coordination (including communication with China and other international partners), budget management, and flawless attention to detail.Success in this role requires exceptional time management, structured project tracking, high accuracy standards, and proactive vendor and stakeholder management.Position Requirements:Merchandising Strategy & ExecutionDevelop and execute cost-effective POP merchandising programs across all product categories.Create and manage merchandising timelines aligned to product launches, seasonal resets, and customer initiatives.Ensure all deliverables meet brand, cost, and timeline standards.Drive continuous improvement in merchandising processes and documentation.Planogram Development & StandardsLead planogram strategy in collaboration with Sales and Marketing.Develop and maintain planogram standards for key accounts.Ensure accuracy of product placement, dimensions, packaging configuration, and compliance requirements.Conduct audits and corrections as necessary.Global Cross-Functional CoordinationServe as primary merchandising liaison between:U.S. MarketingSalesGraphicsOperationsSourcing and manufacturing partnersProvide clear written specifications to international partners.Confirm timelines, proof accuracy, and ensure alignment across time zones.Vendor & Budget ManagementBrief, manage, and evaluate outside vendors.Develop and secure approvals on project spend intent.Maintain accurate departmental budget tracking.Ensure projects are delivered within approved cost parameters.Identify cost-saving opportunities without sacrificing quality.Project & Deadline DisciplineMaintain structured project management tools for all active initiatives.Track milestones, escalate risks early, and prevent bottlenecks.Deliver 90%+ of assignments on or before deadline.Provide weekly status reporting when required.Performance ExpectationsThe Merchandising Manager will be evaluated on:On-time completion of deliverablesAccuracy and attention to detailTrade show execution qualityBudget adherencePlanogram precisionVendor management effectivenessResponsiveness to global partnersProfessional ownership and follow-throughResponsibilities:Own the PortfolioLead a large, fast-paced pipeline of retailer-exclusive packaging and item changes, keeping timelines, approvals, and deliverables on track across many concurrent SKUs.Manage select exclusive programs from approved concept through production readiness and launch.Establish clear plans, milestones, and operating cadences that bring structure and predictability to the work.Drive Cross-Functional AlignmentAct as the central point of coordination across Retail Marketing, Product Development, Engineering, Procurement, Quality, Packaging, Creative, and Manufacturing.Translate retailer needs into clear briefs and actionable plans that teams can execute with confidence.Surface risks and trade-offs early to keep programs moving forward.Bring Products to LifeGuide artwork development, packaging reviews, proofing, and approvals through final print readiness.Maintain strong version control and disciplined change management to avoid last-minute surprises.Partner closely with packaging, sourcing, and vendor teams to ensure specifications are accurate and production-ready.QualificationsBachelor’s degree in Marketing, Business, Design, or related field.7+ years of merchandising, retail marketing, or related experience.Demonstrated success managing complex projects with multiple stakeholders.Strong 3-dimensional merchandising understanding (POP, packaging, display structures).Experience working with international teams preferred.High proficiency in Microsoft Office; experience with Blue Yonder Space Planning planogram software required.Strong written communication skills for global specification clarity.Proven ability to manage workload in high-volume, deadline-driven environment.Authority:Reports to the VP of Retail MarketingWork Environment and Physical RequirementsThe position requires the ability to work at a desk for extended periods, use standard office equipment, and communicate effectively with internal and external partners.Specific vision abilities include the ability to read and analyze data in hard copy and on a computer screen, measure or identify using eyesight and adjust vision focus.Abilities to communicate verbally and in writing to individuals and groups.Occasional domestic or international travel may be required.MGA Entertainment provides reasonable accommodations for qualified individuals with disabilities in accordance with applicable laws.Salary$90,000 - $125,000 /year