As our Sourcing Assistant, you will be responsible for supporting the sourcing team in assigned categories with implementation of sourcing strategies, day to day vendor correspondence, samples and data integrity.  Manages the sampling process to ensure on time delivery of inventory and photography samples.  Works in a team environment partnering with other members of the sourcing team, merchandisers, inventory to execute merchandising needs, ensure product quality, meet on time delivery, support speed to market, and maximize profitability.

Principal Duties and Responsibilities

Essential Functions

1. Accountable for data integrity including but not limited to PIM system, Vendor and maker files
2. Ensures on time receipt and approval of Pre-Production Samples and Production Samples
3. Communicates and follows-up with vendors with regard to samples
4. Prepare samples for the quoting process
5. Collaborates and coordinates work with all other Merchant support areas including but not limited to, QA, Testing, Inspections, Packaging, Inventory and Imports
6. Develops and maintains superior working relationship with internal/external customers
7. Maintains regular and predictable attendance
8. Abides by all policies and procedures of Oriental Trading Company
9. Must be able to attend face to face meetings on short or little advance notice
10. Work in-person collaboration among colleagues and contractors

Marginal Functions

Performs other duties and projects as assigned

Here’s what you need to join the fun:

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities

• Fully understands item relationships within their categories
• Ability to exhibit a consistent professional and positive attitude
• Strong problem solving and analytical skills
• Strong organization and project/task management skills
• Strong written and oral communication skills
• Strong interpersonal skills
• Strong knowledge of MSOffice
• Pro-active, self-motivated, results oriented individual
• Ability to multi-task and prioritize based on business environment/needs
• Ability to work independently to meet priority deadlines
• Ability to manage stress and handle difficult situations in a professional manner
• Ability to perform job duties in a safe manner

Education

• Associate’s degree in Business or equivalent combination of education and experience
• Bachelor’s degree preferred

Experience

• 1 – 2 years experience with off shore sourcing, project management, buying/ merchandising is preferred

Join us at Oriental Trading, a Berkshire Hathaway Company, where fun means business! 

Oriental Trading Company (www.orientaltrading.com), is the nation’s largest direct retailer of value-priced party supplies, arts and crafts, toys and novelties, and a leading provider of teaching supplies and affordable home décor and giftware. Founded in 1932 by a Japanese American, the Oriental Trading history of fun spans the better part of the last century. Today, Oriental Trading offers more than 60,000 products to individuals, teachers, schools, churches, businesses and nonprofits. With a corporate vision to “Make Life More Fun,” Oriental Trading (a Berkshire Hathaway company) spreads joy and smiles to millions each year through a robust family of brands; Oriental Trading, Fun Express, MindWare, SmileMakers, Morris Costumes and halloweenexpress.com.

EOE