Corporate Product Developer

Overview : The Corporate Merchandise Product Developer is responsible for building the product strategy and delivering business results for their assigned category. Product innovation and co-branded collaborations are key to driving demand and expanding the market. Responsible for purchasing, product development, sourcing, testing, product approvals, quality, selection and maintenance of all products with assigned category.

Collaborate with Category Planning to develop and deliver products within defined margin and assortment plans. Collaborate with Park Merchandise Operations teams on visual merchandising strategies for developed product assortments. Utilize product development calendar to ensure timely deliveries. Must be flexible and able to multitask and prioritize in fast paced amusement park environment while interacting and communicating with representatives from all Six Flags Parks and the Six Flags corporate office. Travel to Parks and trade shows to observe trends, identify new strategies and product ideas.

Work collaboratively with Category Planning and Park Retail Operations to develop annual merchandising strategy and business plans for assigned categories for Six Flags Parks and review with business partners. Champion the product development process from ideation through successful launch.

Drive significant category growth through development and execution of category and segment strategies, new innovative products, new categories, and exclusive brands.

Develop co-branded product opportunities, realize the benefits and strategic value of partnerships and vendor collaborations through the entire product lifecycle.

Build excellent relationships with vendors, cross-functional teams and park retail operations teams.

Identify Customer Preferences and attend events, fairs, and exhibitions to remain up to date with market’s trends. Drive innovation in the category through art development and strategic partnerships.

Drive new product development within assigned categories to align with Category Planning Strategy, annual merchandising strategy and business plan for the category. Evaluate supplier options according to prices, quality etc. and determine the best choices, negotiate as required to achieve financial goals. Reconcile any discrepancies between purchase order and invoice costs or any issues related to product quality or delivery timeliness.

Ability to evaluate each vendors strengths and weaknesses to maximize vendor performance metrics.

Provide visual merchandise presentation guidance for developed product assortments.

Ensure product quality and integrity are maintained.

Build and maintain good working relationships with assigned third party licenses as it relates to the Licensor’s global strategy and potential application to the Six Flags business.

Bachelor’s degree in Fashion Merchandise, Business Administration, or Marketing or 2-3 years of related experience

~3+ years of product development or buying experience

~ Travel required : Ability to quickly identify emerging trends and their application to the business

Passion for product quality and the desire to deliver an amazing guest experience

Merchandise Storytelling