ESSENTIAL DUTIES & RESPONSIBILITIES (Note: Other duties may be assigned)

To perform this job successfully, an individual must be able to perform each essential duty satisfactorily. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

• Spearhead the conception and flawless execution of innovative retail experiences, including exclusive pop-up installations and innovative brand activations, in collaboration with key stakeholders.

• Partner closely with the Retail Brand Experience (RBE) Director to ideate and craft exquisite go-to-market creative strategies that tell the overarching seasonal narratives

• Lead the development and implementation of creative merchandising concepts that enhance product storytelling and provide an elevated shopping experience

• Drive the direction and execution of seasonal showrooms, meticulously curating environments that personify Vera Bradley as the Joy Catalist

• Strategically engage with District Managers to reinforce our company's aspirational objectives in merchandise presentation, ensuring that every touchpoint projects personal expression and choice, with the customer at the center of every decision.

• Deliver comprehensive visual training, tailored feedback, and on-the-ground support to Vera Bradley's store managers and wholesale partners.

• Continuously refine processes and recommend best practices to uphold impeccable visual brand standards, setting the benchmark for retail excellence.

• Read and react to business needs ensuring improved KPI's and maximized sales

• Provide timely and insightful feedback to our RBE Advisory team, District Managers, Area Managers, and Store Managers, ensuring a cohesive and consistently elevated visual experience across all touchpoints.

• Lead quarterly new manager visual trainings, nurturing a culture of excellence and sophistication from the outset of their journey with Vera Bradley.

• Other duties as needed

EDUCATION AND/OR EXPERIENCE

• Bachelor's degree in retail, marketing, merchandising, or related field preferred.

• 10+ years' experience within upscale/luxury gift, apparel/fashion accessory or home industries preferred

• 5 + years directing or managing/supervising experience.

• High level experience understanding retail buying and/or sales

KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS, AND ABILITIES

The requirements listed below are representative of the knowledge, skills, and/or abilities required to perform each essential duty satisfactorily. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

• Proven project management skills

• Strong PC skills utilizing Microsoft Office software

• Strong understanding of architectural drawing details

• Excellent written, and verbal communication skills with the proven ability to communicate with all levels across the organization

• Collaborative, while able to influence and persuade

• Strong team player with the ability to build and maintain good rapport with both internal and external customers to handle situations with confidence and tact

• Exceptional organizational skills with demonstrated ability to prioritize workload, and concurrently manage multiple projects

• Flexible, adaptable with the demonstrated ability to work under pressure in a fast-paced environment

• Ability to make decisions within guidelines and policies impacting a range of standard and non-standard matters

• Able to solve complex problems with the ability to take a new perspective on existing solutions

• Ability to apply best practice and industry knowledge to improve products or processes

• High level of analytical thinking and attention to detail

ENVIRONMENT & PHYSICAL DEMANDS

The physical demands described here are representative of those an individual must meet to successfully perform the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

• Office environment. Utilizing an office desk - sitting, reading, listening, or speaking with the ability to move intermittently throughout the day

• Ability to lift 35lbs and occasionally lift to 55lbs

• Strong sensory skills, such as good eyesight, good hearing, and dexterity

• Ability to operate office equipment, including computers, copiers, fax machines, and phones

• Frequent travel to visit direct stores and showroom setup shows as needed

• Frequent overnight travel required (2-3 weeks per month)