Creative Services Manager, Merchandising

Aspire Bakeries - Detroit, MI

Full-time - Mid Level

Detroit, MI

11-50 employees

About the position

The Merchandising Manager, Creative Services at Aspire Bakeries is responsible for overseeing the development, management, and optimization of merchandising materials and processes. This role is critical in ensuring that merchandising efforts align with strategic business goals while maintaining fiscal responsibility and operational efficiency. The manager will lead a team and collaborate with cross-functional partners, vendors, and key stakeholders to deliver high-quality merchandising solutions that enhance the brand presence and customer engagement across North America.

Responsibilities

• Manage and track the merchandising budget with a focus on fiscal responsibility.
• Perform cost analysis to align with departmental strategies.
• Review cost center changes and provide insights on causes.
• Conduct project financial analysis and ensure accuracy.
• Process accounts payable (AP) transactions.
• Lead the development and enhancement of merchandising materials.
• Coordinate print production and gang printing efforts.
• Oversee kitting and fulfillment of merchandising needs.
• Support key customer merchandising initiatives.
• Provide hands-on support for critical projects and customer needs.
• Manage vendor relationships, ensuring cost-effective and quality services.
• Oversee trade show booth storage, print management, and agency collaborations.
• Manage business card programs, apparel sites, and the merchandising website.
• Supervise and optimize the workload of direct reports.
• Oversee merchandising portfolio and ensure alignment with team goals.
• Collaborate with vendors and stakeholders on procurement and inventory management.
• Administer warehouse operations, demand planning, and transportation management.
• Create and maintain standard operating procedures (SOPs).
• Execute SAP transactions and manage purchase order (P.O.) placements.
• Provide direct support to national account programs.
• Partner with marketing, sales teams, and brokers to develop and launch custom programs.
• Develop communication strategies for program rollouts.
• Collaborate with Canadian and North American teams on merchandising initiatives.

Requirements

• High school diploma or GED is required.
• Proficiency in SAP and Excel.
• Demonstrated experience in inventory management and budget oversight.
• Strong vendor negotiation and relationship management skills.
• Exceptional communication and collaboration abilities.
• Ability to lead and manage a team in a dynamic, fast-paced environment.
• Experience with merchandising portfolio development and continuous improvement initiatives.