The global JanSport and NORA Eastpak team is looking for a fun and energetic Associate Merchandiser who will work collaboratively and cross-functionally in supporting the planning and execution of the seasonal product line for the global JanSport and NORA Eastpak brands. This role will report into the Merchandise Manager and will be an essential role in assisting defining the core consumer, creating a differentiated brand vision for the business segment, supporting special project needs including collaborations and driving that point of view into the marketplace.
Join the JanSport & Eastpak Family
In 1967, three friends were living in Washington State: Skip, an outdoor enthusiast; Murray, an engineer; and Jan, an accomplish seamstress. So, when Murray won a timely design award from the Alcoa Company for creating the first adjustable aluminum frame for backpacks, a bit of instant karma began to take flight. Murray asked his girlfriend, Jan, to create a backpack pattern for his new aluminum frame and promised her that if he was a success and took off, he’d name the company after her. It was, he did, and the JanSport brand came to life. JanSport has been part of your journey through life ever since.
Since 1952, Eastpak has been built to resist. Starting off making long-lasting, durable gear for the US military, Eastpak has transformed into a company that has allowed individuals to express themselves and inspire positive resistance through the bag they carry. Over the years, we’ve redefined the rules of the bag and luggage design while seeking out challenges that disrupt our timeless design and allow for greater collaboration, all while remaining authentic and consistent for what we stand for.
Together, JanSport & Eastpak continue to reinvent and reimagine high-quality products that equip you for life’s next adventure.
Position: Associate Merchandiser
What you will do:
Support the merchandising team for the product planning process and Go-To-Market milestone meetings, with a focus on supporting organizational strategic goals.
Assist in the creation of consumer centric seasonal product briefs, merchandise strategies, and assortment plans for assigned consumer segment to deliver revenue and margin targets.
Partner with design and development teams to deliver on seasonal briefs, track progress, and troubleshoot roadblocks for consumer segment.
How you will do it:
Provide analysis and integration of global data sets (sell-in, sell-through, marketplace data, etc.) to build a foundation for seasonal line architecture and drive actionable business recommendations and tactics.
Ensure clear and consistent communication with cross-functional teams to drive a holistic and successful GTM launch.
Maintain line plan and ensure accuracy throughout the season.
What success looks like:
Deliver inspirational product and sales meeting presentations that communicate a clear brand and consumer segment point of view.
Strong communication and relationship building between key cross functional partners.
Active collaboration and participation in the GTM process, including strategic brainstorming, identify areas of opportunities, and effectively applying brand pillars into seasonal goals.
Free to Be, Inclusion & Diversity
As a purpose-led, performance driven company, we strive to foster a culture of belonging based on respect, connection, openness, and authenticity. We are committed to building and maintaining a workplace that celebrates the diversity of our associates, allowing them to bring their authentic selves to work every day.
Skills for Success
Years of related professional experience : 1-2 years
Educational position requirements: Bachelor’s Degree preferred
What we expect you already know:
Prior experience in buying, merchandising, and/or product management in the accessories/packs industry.
Project management experience including the ability to assist implementation of strategy.
Strong communication for relationship building and collaboration; ability to be influential and build strong cross-functional partnerships.
Understanding of product development calendar, timelines, and deliverables.
Organized and detailed oriented.
What we will teach you:
We will connect you with a variety of cross-functional stakeholders across VF to achieve common goals and exchange best practices
JanSport and Eastpak brand values
JanSport and Eastpak GTM process
What’s In It for You
We’re in the business of unleashing human potential, driven by the ideas, energy and commitment of our people. That’s why we offer comprehensive benefits that encourage mental, physical and financial well-being for all VF associates. When it comes to benefits, we’re the total package. Go to MyVFBenefits.com and click on “Looking to Join VF?” to learn more.
Our Parent Company, VF Corporation
VF is one of the world’s largest apparel, footwear and accessories companies connecting people to the lifestyles, activities and experiences they cherish through our family of iconic outdoor, active and workwear brands. At the heart of our journey lies our company-wide purpose: We power movements of sustainable and active lifestyles for the betterment of people and our planet. This is our purpose. It’s the reason we come to work every day. It’s a commitment shared by our global associates across all brands. Our purpose unites us and leads us to pursue our goals, together. This is our calling. Learn more at vfc.com.
We just have one question. Are you in?
Hiring Range :
$57,888.00 USD - $72,360.00 USD annually
Incentive Potential : This position is eligible for additional compensation awards that may include an annual incentive plan, sales incentive, or commission potential. Specific details of the additional compensation eligibility for this position will be provided during the recruiting and interview process.
Benefits at VF Corporation : You can review a general overview of each benefit program offered, including this year's medical plan rates on www.MyVFbenefits.com and by clicking Looking to Join VF? Detailed information on your benefits will be provided during the hiring process.
P lease note, our hiring ranges are determined and built from market pay data. In determining the specific compensation for this position, we comply with all local, state, and federal laws.
At VF, we value a diverse, inclusive workforce and we provide equal employment opportunity for all applicants and employees. All qualified applicants for employment will be considered without regard to an individual’s race, color, sex, gender identity, gender expression, religion, age, national origin or ancestry, citizenship, physical or mental disability, medical condition, family care status, marital status, domestic partner status, sexual orientation, genetic information, military or veteran status, or any other basis protected by federal, state or local laws. If you are unable to submit your application because of incompatible assistive technology or a disability, please contact us at [email protected] . VF will reasonably accommodate qualified individuals with disabilities to the extent required by applicable law.
Pursuant to all applicable local Fair Chance Ordinance requirements, including but not limited to the San Francisco Fair Chance Ordinance, VF will consider for employment qualified applicants with arrest and conviction records.
VF Diversity Vision StatementVF is committed to creating an inclusive environment that welcomes and values the differences among all of our associates, customers, suppliers and the communities in which we live and conduct business. The continued success and growth of VF is enhanced through initiatives that promote diversity throughout VF around the world.VF is an equal employment opportunity/ affirmative action employer of minorities, females, protected veterans and the disabled. VF is committed to providing equal opportunities in employment, and treating our VF associates and VF applicants without discrimination on the basis of their race, color, gender, age, national origin, religion, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, marital status, citizenship, disability, protected veteran status, HIV/AIDS status, or any other legally protected factor.