Manager, Commercial Activation
About The Position
Our Merchandising team is at the forefront of delivering innovative products and solutions that meet the evolving needs of our customers. We work cross-functionally to bring ideas to life, ensuring our Own Brand portfolio is positioned for success across all channels. If you thrive in a fast-paced environment and enjoy turning strategy into execution, this is a unique opportunity to make a measurable impact. The Manager, Commercial Activation – Own Brands is responsible for owning end-to-end activation of a defined portfolio of Private Brand SKUs, ensuring products are effectively positioned, launched, and optimized across Staples Business, Retail, Staples.com, and Marketplace channels. This role operates at the center of cross-functional execution, driving alignment across teams, identifying and resolving activation gaps, and using data-driven insights to continuously improve performance.
Requirements
- Strong ownership mindset with ability to drive initiatives from concept through execution
- Ability to navigate ambiguity and structure complex, cross-functional challenges
- Collaborative, proactive approach to building alignment across teams
- Analytical curiosity and comfort working with data to inform decisions
- Clear, concise communication skills with ability to translate complexity into actionable insights
- Strong prioritization skills and ability to balance multiple initiatives in a fast-paced environment
- Resilient, solutions-oriented mindset with focus on continuous improvement
- Bachelor’s degree in Business, Marketing, Merchandising, Analytics, or related work experience
- 7+ years of experience in merchandising, marketing, commercial activation, or related roles
Nice To Haves
- Experience in omnichannel retail (B2B, eCommerce, Retail, Marketplace)
- Experience working with SKU-level sales, pricing, or channel performance data
- Experience supporting go-to-market or product performance initiatives
- Exposure to Private Brands or CPG environments
Responsibilities
- Own end-to-end activation for a portfolio of Own Brand SKUs, including new launches and in-market assortment
- Ensure products are properly set up and optimized across digital, retail, and program environments
- Identify and resolve activation gaps impacting pricing, placement, readiness, and content
- Drive cross-functional alignment across Merchandising, Pricing, Sales, Digital, Retail, Marketplace, and GPO partners
- Partner with execution teams to ensure activation plans are delivered consistently
- Analyze performance data (sales, pricing, channel performance) to identify risks and opportunities
- Monitor key activation KPIs and ensure follow-through on improvements
- Translate data into clear, actionable insights to support business decisions
- Contribute to reporting improvements and enhanced data visibility
- Lead or influence cross-functional initiatives and mentor less experienced team members
Benefits
- Inclusive culture with associate-led Business Resource Groups
- Flexible PTO (22 days)
- Holiday Schedule (7 observed paid holidays)
- Online and Retail Discounts
- Company Match 401(k)
- Physical and Mental Health Wellness programs
Stand Out From the Crowd
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What This Job Offers
Job Type
Full-time
Career Level
Manager
