Sample Coordinator

About Washington Shoe Company:

Washington Shoe Company is a leading footwear manufacturer based in Seattle, Washington. With a rich history spanning over 130 years, we pride ourselves on crafting high-quality, innovative footwear for a diverse range of consumers. Our brands include Western Chief, Chooka, and Staheekum, catering to various lifestyles. We are committed to excellence in design, functionality, and sustainability, striving to deliver exceptional products that inspire confidence, comfort, and fun in every step.

Role & Responsibilities:

As a Sample Coordinator, you will ensure that all sample-related processes are efficiently managed and that samples are available and accurately documented for design, production, sales, and marketing purposes. This role requires excellent organizational, communication, and multitasking skills, along with the ability to work independently and collaboratively in a fast-paced environment. Some of the key responsibilities include:

• Cross-Functional Collaboration: Work closely with Sales, Design, and Production teams to track sample development for footwear and accessory product lines.
• Timeline Management: Report and manage sample timelines and approval statuses, ensuring that all stakeholders are updated on progress.
• Sample Processing: Handle the logistics of receiving, sending, and distributing samples from agents, customers, meetings, and tradeshows.
• Documentation: Maintain detailed records of sample comments, changes, and approvals in Access database and sample tags.
• Workspace Organization: Keep the office workspace and warehouse shelves organized and tidy. Organize and maintain sample displays in showrooms and ensure the most current samples are available.
• Photography Requests: Coordinate requests for samples needed for photography, marketing, or promotional purposes.
• Reporting: This role reports to Associate Designer
• Schedule: In person Full-time, Monday-Friday, day-time business hours 

Qualifications:

·      Education: Associate’s degree or equivalent work experience required.

·      Experience: Previous internship or relevant work experience in Retail preferred

·      Technical Skills: Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite, Excel, Teams, PowerPoint

·      Communication: Excellent verbal and written communication abilities.

·      Organizational Skills: Strong organizational skills with a keen attention to detail.

·      Work Style: Assertive, proactive, and able to work with a sense of urgency. Ability to work independently and collaboratively within a team.

·      Multitasking: Ability to multitask and prioritize tasks in a fast-paced environment.

·      Problem-Solving: Strong problem-solving skills and the ability to adapt quickly to time-sensitive tasks.

·      Physical Requirements: Must be able to lift 50+ lbs.

·      Industry Knowledge: Understanding of the retail buying cycle; experience in footwear/apparel is a plus.

·      Preferred Experience: Experience in the retail or footwear/apparel industry is preferred.

Company Benefits:

·      Health and Wellness: Comprehensive medical, dental, and vision insurance.

·      Insurance Coverage: Life and disability insurance.

·      Retirement Savings: 401(k) plan with a company match.

·      Time Off: Generous paid time off and holiday schedule.

·      Employee Perks: Purchase credits and discounts on company products.

·      Work Environment: Flexible work environment with a casual dress code.

·      Professional Growth: Opportunities for professional development and career growth.

·      Community Engagement: Paid volunteer hours.

·      Company Culture: A valued company culture with a flat organization structure.

  Our Company Values:

1.      Lead with integrity

2.      Make tomorrow better

3.      Do more with less

4.      Act with passion & ambitious timelines

5.      Transparent Communication

6.      Deliver Smiles

7.      Be humble 

8.      Work with a curious mind

9.      Inclusive and family spirited

10.  Be the customer

Industry: Retail Apparel and Fashion