Merchandising Team Lead

Merchandising Team LeadWe are looking for a strategic and results-driven Merchandising Team Lead to lead our end-to-end merchandising function, building a comprehensive portfolio strategy to bridge Korean and U.S. product selection/operations. This role will oversee brand sourcing, product strategy, category planning, campaign execution, and cross-border operational support across online and offline stores. The ideal candidate has a deep understanding of both K-beauty and the U.S. beauty market, and a proven ability to translate global strategies into high-impact local executions.K-Beauty Strategy & OperationsCollaborate with Korean HQ and U.S. teams to develop and manage a strong K-beauty brand portfolio and product pipelineLead planning and launch of exclusive products for the U.S. market, including GWP, special kits, and gift setsOversee regular purchase orders and local sourcing schedules to ensure timely product availabilityPlan and execute merchandising campaigns in collaboration with internal and external stakeholdersReport on performance metrics of key MD campaignseCommerce Strategy & OperationsServe as liaison between HQ and U.S. MD teams to establish effective communication and collaborationSupport regulatory processes, including MoCRA compliance and inbound logistics workflowsAssist in building local e-commerce capabilities, including localized UI/UX and functionality improvementsCollaborate with HQ local/global merchandising teams on new brand onboardingMD Management & ReportingDevelop and execute localized MD strategies aligned with global brand direction across offline and digital channelsIdentify new growth drivers through trend spotting and market segmentationAnalyze sales data by channel and store to generate actionable insightsTrack, evaluate, and optimize performance of merchandising and marketing campaignsSupport business development initiatives including strategic partnership sourcingStore Openings & Retail OperationsLead end-to-end planning for new store openings, including POG setup and in-store display coordinationOptimize in-store experiences with localized product offerings and service innovationFacilitate collaboration across HQ and local departments to ensure smooth operationsBrand Sourcing & ManagementCurate and maintain a local brand pool aligned with our company's MD identity and market trendsLead outreach, pitching, and onboarding processes for new brand partnersOversee inventory planning and order cycles for local brandsMonitor brand performance and co-plan promotions to drive growthBuild and nurture long-term relationships with key industry stakeholdersPromotion Planning & ExecutionDesign market-relevant promotional strategies using both global and local IPsCollaborate with brands and marketing teams on co-branded campaignsAdjust promotional strategies based on market trends and consumer behaviorAlign product and marketing launches with seasonal events and brand activationsQualificationsBachelor's degree in Business, Marketing, Merchandising, or related field10+ years of merchandising, buying, or category management experience in the beauty or retail industryStrong knowledge of both Korean and U.S. beauty marketsDemonstrated experience in product sourcing, vendor management, and campaign executionStrong analytical, leadership, and communication skillsExperience working in a cross-functional, fast-paced environmentPreferred QualificationsExperience in end-to-end category management with strong executive communication capabilities is preferredBilingual proficiency in English and Korean is desirable but not required.Strong analytical skills with proficiency in Excel, PowerPoint and Word