Intern - Product Development

Intern - Product Development , Textiles
 

About the job

We are an American importer of a variety of innovative products, ranging from apparel, to home textiles, and home décor.  We develop fresh, new products for our retail customers in the U.S.  Collaboration is a huge part of our company culture and drives our success.  

You are seeking a work environment where people are encouraged to be creative, problem solve and, as important, have fun together. If you’re prepared to work hard, and create impact, we would love to have you join our team!
 

Wuensche USA Company Culture:
We are a purpose-led company on an exciting growth journey.  We have an inclusive and welcoming company culture and an inclusive yet flexible office in downtown Chicago. 
 

Who You Are:

• Self-confident, driven, with a tenacious attitude.
• An excellent, respectful, and clear communicator on all levels.
• Highest standards in terms of quality and meeting timelines.
• A high-energy, flexible, results-oriented, self-starting leader.
• Possesses intellectual rigor and curiosity.
• Decisive – have a point of view based on facts.
• Possesses high moral, ethical, and integrity standards.
• Empathetic, yet driven to achieve excellence; build a culture of accountability.
• Ability to successfully manage multiple priorities. Team player with the ability to gain consensus through collaboration and open dialogue.
• Unique ability to connect with people at all levels.

About The Role:
 

• Work closely with Associate Product Development Manager and Group Director to analyze Textile Categories within top customer’s merchandise mix.
• Coordinate with APDM the purchasing of samples at Aldi stores each Wednesday, and take photos accordingly.
• Keep track with APDM of quarterly presentation timelines and ensure timely presentation of ideas to Group Director.
• Keep a pulse on the market for apparel, home textiles, and pet and purchase relevant samples throughout the year to prepare for presentations.
• Keep track of purchased samples, receipts and return of unused samples.
• Order tender or retail samples in a quick fashion when necessary and/or visit stores to purchase samples if timing is urgent.
• Download and save all tenders for all three textile categories.  Assist with sending tender information to overseas offices within 2 days after receipt, maximum.
• Responsible for creation of NIPF’s for review by PDM and Group Director for presentations and new ideas
• Develop detailed and accurate RFQ’s for tenders and presentation development.
• Assist with developing PowerPoint presentations for all 3 categories
• Manage very fast turnaround times. Develop an internal system for managing timelines.  Fast and accurate.
• Above average attention to detail in reviewing colors, fabrics, trims, samples and acting as the gatekeeper/quality control for items being submitted to Aldi buyers.
• Communicate with overseas merchandisers.

Qualifications:

• Fashion merchandising or product development coursework.
• Knowledge of textiles and/or apparel (fabrics, trends, construction) preferred.
• Excellent communication skills – both written and verbal.
• Superior attention to detail and extremely high-quality standards.
• Willingness to work cohesively within a team with a positive attitude.
• Ability to act effectively as a liaison between our overseas offices and WUSA office make sounds judgement calls on a regular basis.
• Solid project management skills with well-defined T & A vision.
• Ability to work 20-25 hours per week.