Visual Presentation Specialist

Smithsonian Institution • Washington, DC

1d • $52,000 - $55,000 • Onsite

About The Position

The Visual Presentation Specialist is responsible for the creation and implementation of visual strategies that enhance the retail experience, support the merchandising objectives and museum mission while maintaining the visual presentation standards as established by the Visual Presentation and Store Planning departments. The Specialist collaborates with their supervisor in the development and execution of floor sets and tests from initial concept to in-store execution. In partnership with Merchandising, Store Sales & Operations, and Store Planning the specialist ensures products are presented for optimal profitability and a compelling Brand experience

Requirements

• Bachelor of Arts degree (B. A.) and/or 3-5+ years of experience executing visual presentation strategies in a multi-store specialty environment.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office programs- Word and Excel, and Adobe Illustrator.
• Ability to work in Sketch-Up and Power Point
• Ability to work with basic tools including hammer, screwdriver, saw, paintbrush, and other tools to assist in creative prop building tasks or minor repairs.
• Ability to read and interpret Smithsonian Institution and SE Museum Store policies and procedures, and understand standard retail concepts and practices.

Responsibilities

• Follows direction of supervisor in maintaining standards in presentation of merchandise and establishment of prioritizing work plans to meet timelines associated with merchandising objectives.
• Collaborates with supervisor and other team members on the development of all creative concepts, proposed fixturing and display accessories and props to present merchandise for seasonal sets, special events, new product launches and tests.
• Deliver consistent innovation and merchandising solutions that improve the store experience, drive traffic and meet Brand and creative objectives.
• Collaborate with internal partners (Store Planning and Design, Merchandising, and Store Sales & Operations) on the development of all presentation packages, which may include pictorial documents in Illustrator or other computer programs, to meet the strategic and financial goals of the organization.
• Take ownership and prioritize tasks associated with executing multiple projects as directed by supervisor to meet all Visual and Merchandising calendar timelines.
• Creates calendar of stores visits to ensure customer/associate relationship and effective translation of visual strategies across all store types. Visits to stores are to include identifying opportunities and providing ongoing training sessions on visual merchandising techniques and standards for the retail stores.
• Demonstrate excellent written and verbal skills when presenting creative ideas and working cross-functionally.
• Stay up to date with trends for a specialized gift store environment via market patterning to influence work.
• Maintains a visual fixture, prop, and sign holder inventory for their assigned locations.
• Works closely with retail team partners and vendors
• Creates Price Point Signage using templates as provided by the Store Planning and Design department and ensures in store signage is accurate, up-to-date, and in properly placed sign holders.
• Requests supplemental store signage – ensuring that displays are supported with proper product information, UBIT, and other signs appropriate for fixtures featuring merchandise.
• Partners with Store Sales & Operations to ensure merchandise includes provenance cards where appropriate.

Benefits

• Health, Dental & Vision Insurance
• Life Insurance
• Transit/Commuter Benefits
• Accidental Death and Dismemberment Insurance
• Annual and Sick Leave
• Family Friendly Leave
• 403b Retirement Plan
• Discounts for Smithsonian Memberships, Museum Stores and Restaurants
• Credit Union
• Smithsonian Early Enrichment Center (Child Care)
• Flexible Spending Account (Health & Dependent Care)

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Mid Level
• Number of Employees: 1-10 employees