Job summary
Job post source
This job is directly from The Paper Store
Job overview
The Softlines Product Development & Sourcing Specialist at The Paper Store is responsible for developing and sourcing private label softlines products, ensuring quality and timely delivery to enhance the company's product offerings.
Responsibilities and impact
The role involves managing product development from concept to production, collaborating with cross-functional teams and overseas factories, overseeing quality assurance, negotiating pricing, and monitoring production timelines to meet company goals.
Experience and skills
Requires a bachelor's degree or equivalent in Merchandising, Business, Finance or related field, 3+ years in apparel product development, knowledge of textile manufacturing, strong project management, negotiation, and communication skills, and ability to work onsite in Acton, MA with travel willingness.
Work environment and culture
The company values accountability, communication, creativity, professionalism, and personal development, fostering a supportive and innovative work environment.
Company information
TPS Group Holdings owns The Paper Store and Uncharted brands, focusing on creating joyful shopping experiences with carefully chosen products and excellent service.
Team overview
The specialist reports to the Senior Softlines Product Development and Sourcing Manager and works closely with buyers, managers, graphic designers, and overseas factories.
Job location and travel
The position is based at the Corporate Office in Acton, MA, requiring onsite work 4+ days per week and includes travel, including overseas.
Unique job features
The job offers the opportunity to manage a broad range of softlines apparel and accessories, work with overseas factories, and influence product trends and quality standards.
Company overview
The Paper Store is a family-owned and operated specialty retailer offering a wide range of products including greeting cards, gifts, stationery, and fashion accessories. Established in 1964 in Massachusetts, the company has grown to become the largest family-owned and operated specialty gift business in the Northeast. They generate revenue through both physical retail locations and an online store, providing a diverse selection of high-quality, curated items. The company is known for its commitment to customer service and community involvement, making it a beloved local brand with a loyal customer base.
How to land this job
Tailor your resume to highlight experience in product development and sourcing within the apparel and fashion merchandising industry, emphasizing your knowledge of textile manufacturing and garment production, especially in categories like denim, ready-to-wear, and loungewear.
Emphasize project management skills, ability to manage multiple projects, and strong interpersonal communication, showcasing your experience working with cross-functional teams and overseas factories to ensure quality and timely delivery.
Apply through multiple platforms including The Paper Store's corporate careers page and LinkedIn to maximize your chances of being noticed by recruiters for this role.
Connect with professionals in The Paper Store's product development or sourcing divisions on LinkedIn; use ice breakers such as commenting on recent product launches, expressing enthusiasm for the brand's mission to create joyful shopping experiences, or asking about their approach to trend research and overseas vendor management.
Optimize your resume for ATS by incorporating keywords from the job description like 'product development,' 'sourcing,' 'project management,' 'textile manufacturing,' 'overseas logistics,' and 'trend research' to ensure it passes initial automated screenings.
Use Jennie Johnson's Power Apply feature to automate applying through multiple channels, tailor your resume with the right keywords, and identify LinkedIn connections to network with, allowing you to focus your energy on preparing for interviews and further research.
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