Branded Merchandise Product Manager

The Branded Merchandise Product Manager serves as the central bridge between the supply chain and the demand side of the business. This role owns the full product lifecycle — from market intelligence and product ideation through supplier sourcing, supplier data integration enablement, decoration methods optimization, and distributor enablement. This role includes managing the Proforma Online Product Catalog, sourced from supplier partners via multiple integration methods. The ideal candidate combines deep knowledge of decorated apparel and hard goods with a commercial mindset, translating distributor and end-customer demand signals into a curated, profitable product assortment. Curations will include collections such as General Browsing, Online Stores, Print-on-Demand, Holiday Offerings, and Onboarding Kits.ResponsibilitiesProduct Strategy & Lifecycle ManagementOwn the branded merchandise product roadmap from concept through discontinuationEvaluate market trends, supplier direction, and distributor feedback to identify gaps and opportunities in the product lineDevelop seasonal and annual product collections aligned with Distributor needs for their client base.Manage integrated product library through supplier partner integrations with quality verifications of products and data provided, fully enabling highly efficient utilization in integrated stores for Distributors to deploy and manage.Manage product transitions, end-of-life decisions, and new product introduction timelinesManage specialty curations for seasonal or functional focus, as well as the critical Print-on-Demand online fully integrated collection, working with key supplier partners.Decoration ManagementDevelop deep working knowledge of all major decoration methods and maintain current awareness of technique capabilities, limitations, cost structures, and quality standards for all Print-on-Demand curated items.Decoration methods include, but are not limited to:Decoration Method & Key Competencies RequiredEmbroidery: Stitch counts, digitizing specs, and fabric compatibilityDirect to Print (DTG/DTF): Pretreatment requirements, color gamut, substrate limitations, wash fastness, digital specsHeat Transfer: Transfer types (plastisol, CAD cut, sublimation), application specs, durability, digital specsLaser: Material compatibility (leather, wood, metal, acrylic), depth and contrast settings, digital specsEngraving: Substrate requirements, tooling and setup costs, digital specsNegotiate and establish quality standards with Print-on-Demand partnersParticipate in supplier QBRs with a focus on Print on Demand performance, quality of data, and digital order rates.Demand-Side & Distributor CollaborationBuild and maintain strong working relationships with distributor partners who sell to end customersConduct regular business reviews with distributors to understand sell-through performance, customer feedback, and emerging demandGather, synthesize, and act on voice-of-customer data from distributor sales teams and end buyersEvaluate market segments, vertical opportunities, and customer personas to inform product development prioritiesDevelop sales-enablement tools focused on product catalog curations and integration with suppliers for ease of use directly by distributors in presentations, proposals, stores, and websites.Product Catalog PerformanceOwn product line performance, including integrated data, collection category representation, and cost of goods.Identify collection opportunities through supplier optimization, decoration standardization, or volume leverageReport on product line performance against revenue and sell-through KPIsEducation/Experience:4–7 years of product management, merchandising, or category management experience in branded merchandise, promotional products, decorated apparel, or a closely related industryDemonstrated hands-on knowledge of three or more decoration methods (embroidery, DTG, heat transfer, laser, pad printing, engraving)Experience managing supplier relationships including negotiation, quality management, and performance reviewsFamiliarity with distributor-driven sales channels and indirect go-to-market modelsKnowledge/Skills/Abilities/Competencies:Highly Organized: Meticulous approach to managing multiple, concurrent workstreams.Promotional products industry knowledge: Familiarity with ASI, PPAI, or distributor network structuresPrint-On-Demand: Knowledge of print-on-demand platformsPLM: Exposure to and knowledge of Product Lifecycle ManagementStrong analytical skills: Experience in Excel, ERP systems, or product management platformsProblem Solver: Solid problem-solving and analytical skills.Technical Depth: Speaks the language of decorators and suppliers; understands what is and isn't possible across methods without needing to defer every detail questionCommercial Acumen: Connects product decisions to margin outcomes; thinks like a merchant, not just a project managerDistributor Empathy: Understands that distributors are the customer; designs products and programs around their sales motion and end-customer needsStructured Thinking: Manages complexity across multiple suppliers, decoration types, and product categories without losing sight of prioritiesCollaborative Influence: Works across sales, operations, and supplier partners without direct authority; drives alignment through credibility and communicationCommunication Skills: Strong interpersonal skills to manage cross-functional teams and external stakeholders, utilizing excellent written and verbal communication skills to effectively present findings.Work Environment & Travel:Hybrid or fully remote, depending on location. Infrequent travel 2-4 weeks per year. Travel to the Annual Convention and Print-on-Demand partners, depending on business needs.