Sample Coordinator

Step into a pivotal role where your organizational expertise and proactive drive will directly shape the success of upcoming seasonal fashion launches. Partnering with Aquent, you will have the unique opportunity to support a globally renowned apparel retailer, serving as the essential link that transforms creative concepts into stunning, market-ready collections.

About the Company

Our client is a legendary leader in the fashion and apparel industry, celebrated for shaping trends and bringing beloved collections to life. Dedicated to innovation and design excellence, they foster a collaborative, fast-paced environment where creative vision meets operational precision. By joining this dynamic team, you will play a key role in keeping seasonal product development on track and empowering merchandising teams to thrive.

About the Role

In this essential position, you will become the backbone of a high-performing merchandising team, managing the seamless flow of product samples from initial design to final showcase. You will directly influence the speed and efficiency of the product development lifecycle, ensuring every sample is meticulously tracked, organized, and delivered on time. If you are a master organizer who thrives in a fast-paced creative environment and wants to make a tangible impact on seasonal launches, this is your opportunity to shine.

What You'll Do

• Drive the timely arrival of crucial product samples for each seasonal collection, proactively addressing and resolving any potential delays.
• Master the efficient receipt, logging, and meticulous organization of all incoming samples, with specialized attention to managing Monday's influx of weekend deliveries.
• Maintain impeccable receiving records and tracking logs, ensuring absolute data accuracy for every single sample.
• Serve as the primary communication hub, providing the Merchandising team with clear, regular updates on sample statuses, including arrivals, delays, and any timeline impacts.
• Forge strong, collaborative relationships with Merchandise Assistants across diverse teams, fostering seamless coordination.
• Extract vital product details from various systems to expertly compile comprehensive copy fact sheets, supporting product information needs.
• Provide essential, versatile support to the broader team, contributing to diverse projects and ensuring smooth daily operations.

What You'll Bring to the Team (Must-Haves)

• 1+ years of proven experience in sample coordination, merchandising support, product development, or a related role within the dynamic retail or apparel industry.
• Exceptional organizational skills and an unwavering, meticulous attention to detail.
• Clear, proactive, and adaptable communication skills, particularly when navigating and managing shifting timelines.
• Proficiency in Excel or Google Sheets for precise tracking and record-keeping.
• Comfort with rapidly learning and navigating multiple internal systems; prior experience with PLM or product databases is a valuable asset.
• Demonstrated ability to remain composed, effective, and highly productive while managing fluctuating and often high sample volumes.
• Availability for a consistent 3-day work week (Monday through Wednesday preferred) in a collaborative team setting, with Monday attendance being crucial for managing weekend deliveries.
• Flexibility to transition to full-time hours during critical peak periods, including the entire month of December and approximately 3-4 weeks each quarter, to manage increased sample volume.
• A strong interest in committing to a longer-term role beyond an initial 3-month contract, contributing to sustained success.

Bonus Points That Set You Apart (Nice-to-Haves)

• Direct experience within the apparel, accessories, or broader retail merchandising sectors.
• Familiarity with seasonal calendars and the intricacies of product development flows.
• Previous experience in crafting or compiling product copy or detailed fact sheets.

Why Partner with Aquent

As an Aquent contractor, you're eligible for a comprehensive benefits package designed to support your well-being and professional growth. This includes medical, dental, and vision coverage, a 401(k) retirement plan, paid sick leave, and exclusive access to free professional development resources through Aquent Gymnasium. Discover more about how Aquent supports its talent at aquent.com.