Merchandising Specialist

Overview CJ OLIVE YOUNG USA, Inc is a dynamic and fast-growing beauty retailer specializing in K-beauty skincare and cosmetics in North America. We are expanding our local U.S. beauty brand portfolio and curating a selection of indie/trendy beauty brands to bring innovative products to customers. This role focuses on identifying, sourcing, and building the indie/trendy beauty brand portfolio in the U.S., with responsibilities around onboarding brands, relationships with U.S.-based brands and retailers, and localized marketing and promotional strategies. Job Summary We are seeking a dynamic and strategic Merchandising Specialist to focus on identifying, sourcing, and building our indie/trendy beauty brand portfolio in the U.S. The Local Beauty Merchandiser will source and onboard new brands, cultivate strong relationships with U.S.-based brands and retailers, and create localized marketing and promotional strategies aligned with market trends. The ideal candidate will have deep knowledge of the U.S. beauty market and be skilled at sourcing brands that complement and enhance our existing portfolio. What You’ll Do Develop and maintain a long list of potential beauty brands that fit within the company’s brand identity and resonate with local consumer trends in the U.S. Conduct market research and trend analysis to identify new and emerging indie beauty brands for potential inclusion in the portfolio. Lead the process of tapping into and pitching local beauty brands, ensuring a strong fit for the market and brand values. Oversee the product registration process, ensuring accurate updates and efficient communication across all teams. Manage regular purchase ordering processes, ensuring timely product availability and efficient SHD (Stock Handling & Distribution) management in collaboration with local suppliers. Monitor the growth of brands and product lines, managing portfolios and pipelines for sustainable expansion through customized co-marketing promotions. Build and foster long-term relationships with brands through regular strategy meetings to ensure mutual growth. Develop and implement localized promotional plans tailored to U.S. consumers, ensuring campaigns resonate with local market preferences and trends. Create U.S.-exclusive marketing campaigns and local IPs to generate excitement and engagement with local audiences. Design and execute co-marketing packages with brands including branding opportunities and momentum for NPD launches for scalable growth. Design promotional schemes, including profitability analysis to ensure alignment with budgets and business goals. Regularly update and adjust promotional strategies based on market conditions, consumer behavior, and profitability. Build strong relationships with U.S.-based brands, collaborating on product listings, promotions, and marketing activities to maximize visibility. Oversee the development of visual assets for promotional campaigns, working with external agencies on design concepts and final production. Manage and execute brand-specific promotions, including tracking and adjusting plans to meet marketing KPIs. Conduct comprehensive market research to understand competitor offerings, trends, and customer preferences, using insights to guide merchandising decisions. Qualifications 4+ years of experience in merchandising, brand management, or retail buying, with a focus on local beauty brands or U.S.-based beauty products. Strong understanding of the U.S. beauty market, including trends, customer preferences, and competitive dynamics. Proven experience in product sourcing, brand pitching, and portfolio management. Expertise in creating localized promotional plans and marketing strategies with U.S. retailers and beauty brands. Excellent project management skills with the ability to manage multiple tasks and deadlines. Strong understanding of retail partnerships, co-marketing, and promotional strategy. Creative mindset with an eye for trends and collaboration with external designers and agencies. Proficient in inventory management, product registration, and ERP systems. Strong analytical skills with the ability to assess profitability and performance metrics to inform decisions. Preferred Qualifications Background in Beauty industry strongly preferred. Bilingual proficiency in English and Korean is desirable but not required. Strong analytical skills with advanced Excel proficiency; experience with planning tools or systems is a plus. Benefits Base pay range: $79,000.00/yr - $90,000.00/yr Pay Range: $79,000 - $90,000/year + Eligible for annual performance-based bonus Benefits: 401(k) with Company Match, Employee Discount Program, Lifestyle Allowance, Mobile Phone Plan Reimbursement, Comprehensive Health/Dental/Vision Insurance, Generous Paid Time Off, Flexible Work Hours, Wellness Days, Creative Leave, Monthly Team Building Budget and more! Equal Employment Opportunity CJ Olive Young USA, Inc is an equal opportunity employer committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees. We do not discriminate based on race, religion, color, national origin, gender, sexual orientation, age, marital status, veteran status, disability status, or any other characteristic protected by law. All qualified applicants are encouraged to apply and will receive consideration without regard to these factors. #J-18808-Ljbffr