Product Sample Operations Specialist

Gerber Childrenswear LLC•Wade Hampton, SC

2d•Hybrid

About The Position

The Product Sample Operations Specialist is responsible for owning and optimizing the end-to-end sample management process to support sales, marketing, and product development initiatives. This role oversees sample flow, establishes priorities, and ensures alignment with business timelines and customer requirements. The position requires independent judgment to evaluate competing priorities, resolve operational challenges, and implement process improvements that enhance efficiency, accuracy, and visibility across the sample lifecycle. This role plays a key part in supporting business performance by ensuring sample readiness, reducing delays, and improving operational execution.

Requirements

Associate’s degree or equivalent work experience required
3–5 years of experience in product coordination, merchandising, logistics, or a related field
Proficiency in Microsoft Office (Excel, Outlook, PowerPoint)
Ability to track and manage data, reports, and process documentation
Highly organized with strong attention to detail
Ability to manage multiple priorities and meet deadlines in a fast-paced environment
Self-motivated and able to work independently with minimal supervision
Strong communication skills with the ability to collaborate cross-functionally
Proactive problem-solver with the ability to identify process improvements
Ability to lift and move cartons up to 40 lbs
Ability to stand, bend, and move throughout the day as needed
Ability to perform hands-on tasks related to sample preparation and handling
Must be comfortable working with inventory, samples, and shipping materials in a fast-paced environment

Nice To Haves

Experience working with physical product, inventory, or sample management preferred
Basic knowledge of garment construction and packaging standards is a plus
Experience with shipping systems (e.g., FedEx) preferred
Familiarity with inventory, product tracking, or sample management processes

Responsibilities

Own and continuously improve the end-to-end sample management process, from receipt through final delivery
Evaluate existing workflows and implement process improvements to increase efficiency, reduce rework, and improve visibility
Develop, maintain, and enhance tracking tools, reporting, and documentation to support decision-making and operational control
Identify root causes of delays, errors, or inefficiencies and implement corrective actions
Independently prioritize sample requests based on business impact, timelines, and account requirements
Exercise judgment in resolving conflicts between competing deadlines, limited sample availability, and stakeholder needs
Determine appropriate shipment methods, packaging approaches, and escalation paths to ensure timely delivery
Serve as the primary point of contact for sample operations across Sales, Product Development, Packaging, and Marketing teams
Align sample requirements with seasonal timelines, product launches, and business priorities
Provide recommendations to improve sample readiness, presentation standards, and execution processes
Oversee sample preparation and ensure adherence to company and customer standards for packaging, labeling, and presentation
Monitor sample flow and shipment status, proactively addressing delays, discrepancies, and risks
Ensure compliance with account-specific requirements (e.g., Walmart, Target, Costco)
Track and report on sample status, timelines, and performance metrics
Provide visibility to stakeholders on risks, delays, and execution status
Support seasonal planning by aligning sample needs with broader business objectives
Oversee organization and management of sample inventory and storage processes
Establish standards for inventory control, organization, and supply management
Ensure operational readiness through effective management of materials and resources
Oversee shipment execution, including domestic and international shipments
Ensure accuracy of shipping documentation, including commercial invoices
Manage relationships with shipping providers and resolve issues as needed