We believe the transformative power of the outdoors makes us better humans and drives us to do good for the planet. We are here to inspire and support everyone in getting active outside, matching people with gear and advice that instills confidence. We offer more than products, we offer passion. People connect here, through our stores, online channels, over the phone, or through our services and community partners. We love to share our expertise, experience, and enthusiasm. We deliver award winning retail experiences, encourage an entrepreneurial spirit and believe the outdoors make us better.
Our business model is dependent on impassioned and well-trained outdoor enthusiasts and as such we look for individuals who live our purpose and fit with MEC ethos and lifestyle. If you are that person, we’d love to connect with you!
MEC offers a total rewards package that includes a great base pay, a sweet employee discount, a comprehensive benefit package, matching RRSP contributions, an employee development program that even lets you try out gear for yourself, self directed and leader-based training, and a host of other perks and advantages tailored to those who love the outdoors.
MEC is an equal opportunity employer. We’re proud to work with our people to create a diverse workplace, which accommodates individuals of all abilities, backgrounds and identities. We welcome and encourage applications from people with disabilities. Tell us what you need during the hiring process, and we’ll do our best to accommodate you.
About the Role
Reporting to the Chief Product Officer, the Senior Director, MEC Label is responsible for leading the MEC label product strategy for all relevant outdoor categories that delivers quality outdoor product solutions for members, with a DTC value-based pricing model, while delivering the sales, margin and sustainability goals of the company.
This role is responsible for the full product development cycle of product briefing, design/development, sourcing, production and supply chain. The Senior Director works closely with the Merchandising and Planning leadership to ensure that the Label Product strategy is aligned with the merchandising and financial goals of each category.
The Senior Director, MEC Label will evolve the roadmap by leaning on the historical outdoor strengths of the Label, balanced with pushing Label into the future with a distinct creative vision, by understanding key consumer trends in outdoor for both activity and non-activity adjacent products.
MEC Merchandising strategies lead with the Label first and by 2023 it will be 1/3 of our overall sales but represent 45% of our margin contribution. In order to deliver these goals a disciplined approach to merchandising that is equally informed by data insights, combined with creative vision will be critical to resonate rationally and emotionally with MEC members current and future.
MEC Label will follow a hybrid model with product creation internally and externally all managed by the Senior Director. The organization will stay nimble to enable fast adoption of consumer trends and to lean into innovative design/development and production models.
Given that MEC’s business model is dependent on impassioned super well trained outdoor enthusiasts, it is crucial that the individual possesses a passion for living our purpose and is a fit with the MEC ethos and lifestyle.
SPECIFIC DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES
Lead the design, development, and commercialization of both hard and soft goods for MEC Label that delivers on MEC’s brand vision. Ensure product development is delivered on time, on cost, and on quality.
Develop, lead, and coach the Label Team through the creative fulfilment of MEC’s brand strategy across all relevant categories.
Develop and communicate requirements for design aesthetic, cost, and construction engineering.
Frame, align, and manage the financial budget of the Label business unit aligned with broader company merchandising goals
Ensure MEC designs incorporate sourcing policies and social and environmental initiatives are an inherent part of the conceptual thinking. Outline a strategic pathway toward MEC’s sustainability objectives.
Research, observe, and contextualize the market landscape as it relates to product, pricing, position, and marketing to frame strategic decision-making.
Ensure construction and consistency across product class according to established brand guidelines.
Build vendor and cross-functional relationships and expertly manage those partnerships to ensure deliverables are met.
Maintain 100% buy ready product through seasonal readiness and risk assessment management.
Act as a key member of the Senior Leadership team and participate in broader organizational strategy and planning.
EXPERIENCE & SKILLS
10+ years of industry experience industry experience in product development and innovation
Strong applied comprehension of end to end product life cycle
Proven track record in developing and leading the execution of a multi-year business strategy.
Deep understanding of the design, commercialization, and industrialization of high-performance outdoor gear.
Strong business acumen with the ability to lead in a complex matrix business environment.
Proven people leadership skills and the ability to build, coach and guide a diverse and high performing team.
Strong influential leadership, with the ability to drive alignment across diverse cross-functional stakeholders at all levels of the business.
CRITICAL LEADERSHIP CAPABILITIES & BEHAVIORAL ATTRIBUTES
Demonstrate impeccable taste and are passionate about sustainability and being outside.
Set a clear vision, align team around common objectives, and foster commitment to these objectives.
Fosters connection by putting people first and building trusting relationships
Possesses an entrepreneurial spirit and continuously innovates to achieve great results
Attention to detail, initiative, organization, strong verbal and written communication skills
Remain highly flexible and adaptable when faced with ambiguity.
Effectively balances autonomy and collaboration.
Inspires breakthrough thinking and continuous improvement.
Seeks the best solutions, with an unwavering commitment to do what is right.
Passion for work is paralleled by passion for getting outside and living it.
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