Visual Merchandising Designer – Hybrid

About the position

The Visual Merchandising Designer will work on the design conceptualization, coordination, and successful execution of Visual Merchandising fixtures regarding periodical global launches as well as permanent units in all types of retail environments. The overall goal is to ensure that a consistent look and feel is carried out at counter and that ITC overall brand image continues to evolve, ensuring a strong brand presence in a highly competitive marketplace. This position is responsible for design, development and execution of tester and merchandising units related to permanent and seasonal programs for the brand.

Responsibilities

• Based on creative requests/briefs, develop designs that are clear, visually impactful, easy to navigate and consistent with overall channel designs.
• Work with key partners (i.e., Marketing, Sales) to ensure the designs achieve the best results for each product launch and installation.
• Communicate with global teams (Mktg, PM, CM, etc.) & store design to understand store fixtures in various retail environments to ensure merchandising solutions result in a cohesive brand message.
• Full execution of all visual merchandising requests managing phases of projects.
• Based on competitive landscape, develop shelf displays to stand out from the competition and highlight new product launches.
• Design a wide variety of global launch assets, seasonal program and evergreen artwork assets (i.e. front strips, toppers, headers, trend displayers, end caps).
• Create guidelines and maintain graphic templates/codes and 2D planograms for regions to adapt to their local retailer fixtures.
• Design, package and distribute graphics (for production) as needed and under strict deadlines.
• Render gondolas, stores and product launches to show graphic layouts in context.
• Attend meetings, present concepts and report on status of current projects if necessary.
• Create digital guidelines/presentations of open sell systems for internal/external use.
• Along with standard units, create site-specific one-off merchandising units that must be addressed individually each season according to sales/marketing and regional requests.
• Design dedicated 'animation spaces' and create directives for global implementation.
• Develop spatial design solutions across a multitude of scales, while maintaining approved brand direction and style.
• Translate global merchandising strategy to regional store formats.
• Update merchandising guides, check lists, floor plans and schematics for retail channels.
• Demonstrate an understanding of materials, cost, and time requirements on projects.
• Maintain awareness of current trends in visual arts and merchandising.

Requirements

• Approx. 5 years in experience in merchandising, visual display or related areas.
• Proficient in Adobe Creative Suite (InDesign, Photoshop, Illustrator) and Sketchup.
• Experience with visual merchandising design, including tester displays and gondola designs.
• Experience working in a fast-paced, high pressure, creative environment.
• Demonstrated ability to multi-task with agility.
• Must be a self-starter, flexible and imaginative with an understanding of 3D design.
• Can take direction, work independently and collaboratively.
• Knowledge of retail trends.
• Able to come into the office 3 days a week.

Nice-to-haves

• Strong time management skills with the ability to prioritize, multitask and the ability to meet strict deadlines.
• Exceptional organizational and communication skills.
• Ambitious, enthusiastic and flexible.
• Demonstrated ability to effectively convey ideas and concepts visually.
• Independent worker that can take initiative on designs and concepts.
• Innovative thinker.