Associate Trend Analyst JLB

Advantage Solutions•Minneapolis, MN

2d•Hybrid

About The Position

Associate Trend Analyst - JLB exclusively supports Target Our Associate Trend analyst serves as a valuable resource that anchors our clients in the forward momentum of market trends using world-class U.S. and European trend resources, observational trends from trade shows and market tours, and extensive digital research. Our clients include our sales team, sales vendors, category management team, and Target Merchants. Under the guidance of a Trend Manager, the Associate Trend Analyst demonstrates the ability to research, identify and track market trends within a category and consumer trends (behavior, cultural and generational) and is responsible for aligning category-specific white space/new business opportunities that align with Retailer/Merchant strategies. Inspiration and actional recommendations are delivered through customized trend reports and an occasional market tour that are tailored to Target and specific merchant strategies. Their recommendations influence assortment strategies, product development and/or new business opportunities. The Company is one of North America’s leading sales and marketing agencies specializing in outsourced sales, merchandising, category management, and marketing services to manufacturers, suppliers, and producers of food products and consumer packaged goods. The Company services a variety of trade channels including grocery, mass merchandise, specialty, convenience, drug, dollar, club, hardware, consumer electronics, and home centers. We bridge the gap between manufacturers and retailers, providing consumers access to the best products available in the marketplace today.

Requirements

Bachelor’s degree in Business, Marketing, Retail Merchandising, or related field.
Strong analytical and strategic thinking skills; ability to identify patterns and interpret data.
Familiarity with social media platforms and trend analysis tools.
Excellent communication and presentation skills.
Detail-oriented with a passion for consumer behavior and market dynamics.
Education Requirements: Bachelor’s degree
Experience Requirements: 2–4 years experience in relevant field (Trend Forecasting or Strategy experience preferred)
Demonstrates proficiency, self-motivation and expertise in trend research with the ability to connect the dots between multiple resources including market observations, trade show analysis, reports from leading trend publications and digital media
Identify and triangulate white space/new business opportunities that align with retailer/merchant strategies, market opportunities and client strategies to provide actionable insights
Prioritize numerous projects concurrently, ensuring timely completion and allocation of time and resources accordingly
Simplify complex ideas or large amounts of research/data into understandable and concise stories to influence business decisions and drive new business growth
Strong presentation skills, comfortable presenting to groups of 10 people or more, including merchants and clients
Strong visual and graphic design skills to make impactful trend presentations using design and presentation tools
Demonstrates a customer-centric approach with a service mindset and cultivates positive relationships

Responsibilities

Research and monitor consumer and product trends across retail and e-commerce categories.
Analyze patterns and synthesize findings into clear, actionable insights for internal teams.
Track social media trends and leverage global trend services for forecasting.
Collaborate with senior analysts and managers to support strategic planning.
Prepare reports and presentations summarizing trend observations and recommendations.
Research market and product trends: macro, consumer, cultural, and category specific trends using trend resources, observational trends from trade shows, market tours, and extensive digital research to gain deep insights and identify retail trends and white space opportunities. Use trend curve to align findings within company definitions and expectations
Trend reporting: connect the dots between observations from the market, trade show analysis, reports from leading trend publications and digital media. Analyze and apply trend research to create custom trend analysis reports that include macro, consumer, and product trends for a category. Create and present reports inclusive of concise storytelling that shape product and merchandising strategies
Relationships: serve as a trusted advisor and strategic thought partner to clients. Understand company strategies and the marketplace to help identify opportunities for business growth. Navigate and balance needs of clients and interact with merchants or clients with comfort and ease
Inspire action: lead and inspire clients through trend research safaris, curated itineraries including aspirational stores and experiences to inspire new ideas. Support line-review by creating trend material and directing teams to bring showrooms to life in alignment with seasonal strategy. Complete ad hoc projects requested by clients for deep dives into new categories or white space opportunities
Job duties include additional responsibilities as assigned by one’s supervisor or other manager related to the position/department.