The Walt Disney Company

Manager, Merchandising

The Walt Disney Company$110K — $147K *
Retail & Consumer Goods
5 - 7 years of experience
Job Overview by Ladders

Qualifications

  • 5+ years of experience in Hardlines Merchandising
  • Hands-on experience in product development for 3D categories
  • Experience creating omni-channel product lines
  • Background in global product companies preferred
  • Proven ability to leverage market trends for value creation
  • Understanding of the Kidult consumer segment and product strategies
  • Experience with play pattern briefs and packaging strategies
  • Strong strategic thinking and financial execution skills

Responsibilities

  • Set the merchandise strategy for Premium Toys, Glow, and Bubbles categories
  • Implement product strategy on a daily basis
  • Monitor global competitive landscape for opportunities
  • Develop strategies for the Kidult consumer segment
  • Collaborate with design teams to drive product innovation
  • Create consolidated product briefs for design to meet diverse needs
  • Partner with Product Design and Sourcing to deliver seasonal product lines

Benefits

  • Full range of medical, financial, and other benefits
  • Potential for bonuses and long-term incentive units
  • Opportunity for professional development and coaching
  • Collaborative work environment with cross-functional teams
  • Engagement with global sourcing and design partners
Full Job Description
Job Posting Title:
Manager, Merchandising

Req ID:


Job Description:

Manager, Merchandising - Premium Toys, Glow & Bubbles

Reporting to the Senior Manager, Merchandising, this individual will be responsible for setting the merchandise strategy and vision for a complex, multi-subclass 3D product portfolio spanning premium toys, glow and bubble products. This role delivers consumer-centric, trend-right, high-quality product assortments across all owned and operated channels - translating franchise priorities and guest insights into category-defining product lines that balance play pattern innovation, collectability, core offerings and gifting. This role will sit onsite in Kissimmee, FL.

  • This role is specific to the Premium Toys, Glow, and Bubbles categories and requires demonstrated Hardlines product development and merchandising experience.
  • Executes the daily implementation of the product strategy for Premium Toys, Glow and Bubbles
  • Consumer obsessed, constantly balancing the art and the science of merchandising to find opportunities, elevate brand and delight our consumer
  • Develop targeted strategies for the Kidult consumer segment - adults 18+ purchasing product for personal use, nostalgia-driven collecting, or display - including premium price tier development, limited edition and collectible mechanics
  • Relentlessly monitor the global competitive landscape and consumer zeitgeist to capture opportunity
  • Champions products developed in collaboration with the design teams to capitalize on trends, anticipate consumer demand and drive product innovation in category
  • Develop product strategies that define play pattern intent - articulating how the consumer will interact with and derive ongoing value from the product - and establish deliberate packaging intent across formats
  • Consolidates the product needs from all regions and channels to develop one product brief to design ensuring needs of all businesses are met
  • Find commonality in consumer, customer and market trends to minimize duplication / cannibalization; identify areas to reduce complexity and increase productivity.
  • Establish perspective on what's working and why to consistently improve product line
  • Partners with Product Design and Sourcing to deliver seasonal product lines for vertical and wholesale business models that meet KPI business objectives including sustainability goals
  • Lead merchant-initiated product development independent of the formal Product Design structure- authoring product briefs, identifying category gaps, and driving concept through commercialization in direct partnership with sourcing and manufacturing vendors
  • Understand and support the worldwide segmentation at right price/value from value to premium
  • Execute against opportunities to leverage products, co-brands and collaborations globally
  • Track development counts and KPIs targets


LEADERSHIP / MANAGEMENT
  • Serve as the category ambassador across cross-functional teams - showing up with a clear point of view, energy, and deep product knowledge at every stage of the go-to-market process and in every partner interaction where the business is represented
  • Actively participate in conversation and activities with sourcing to cost the line, run financial scenarios
  • Actively participate in conversation with design to create a product line in all activities, key milestone meetings
  • Manages direct report(s) (if applicable) with immediate feedback on performance and weekly touch bases to review deliverables, regular development and coaching


QUALIFICATIONS
  • 5+ years of progressive experience in Hardlines Merchandising
  • Demonstrated hands-on Hardlines merchandising and product development experience across 3D categories, including familiarity with the distinct manufacturing, regulatory and quality control requirements
  • Experience in building an omni-channel product line for a category or categories of business
  • Experience working in highly matrixed and/or global product companies a plus
  • Demonstrated ability to capitalize on market trends and consumer zeitgeist to maximize value creation throughout the trend cycle
  • Demonstrated understanding of the Kidult consumer segment, with experience developing product or assortment strategies that balance traditional child-focused play value alongside premium, nostalgia-driven, and display-oriented product strategies that resonate with adult collectors
  • Experience developing play pattern briefs and packaging intent strategies across Hardlines categories, with fluency in how packaging format decisions directly impact consumer perception, purchase behavior, and collecting engagement
  • Strategic thinker with the ability to drive execution against a financial plan
  • Strong interpersonal skills and ability to influence a diverse audience including experience working with external partners and business owners to bring product and assortments to the market
  • Strong Team Player - The ability to build & foster collaborative partnerships across functions & departments


REQUIRED EDUCATION
  • Associate's Degree or equivalent work experience


The hiring range for this position in Kissimmee, FL is $110,000.00-$147,500.00 per year. The base pay actually offered will take into account internal equity and also may vary depending on the candidate's geographic region, job-related knowledge, skills, and experience among other factors. A bonus and/or long-term incentive units may be provided as part of the compensation package, in addition to the full range of medical, financial, and/or other benefits, dependent on the level and position offered.

Job Posting Segment:
NA - Global Product

Job Posting Primary Business:
NA - Global Product

Primary Job Posting Category:
Merchandising (General)

Employment Type:
Full time

Primary City, State, Region, Postal Code:
Kissimmee, FL, USA

Alternate City, State, Region, Postal Code:

Date Posted:
2026-07-22

About The Walt Disney Company

The Walt Disney Company started as a cartoon studio and evolves into sports coverage and television shows. Using the company's portfolio of brands to differentiate our content, services, and consumer products, Walt Disney seeks to develop creative, innovative, and profitable entertainment experiences and related products.

The Walt Disney Company Careers

Join the magical world of The Walt Disney Company, a place where dreams come true and imagination meets innovation. As a global leader in entertainment and media, we offer unparalleled job opportunities that invite you to be part of a beloved brand known for its influential culture, diversity, and dynamic growth. Work You’ll Do Embark on a career journey with The Walt Disney Company and play a pivotal role in shaping the future of media and entertainment. Engage in work that matters, contributes to storytelling excellence, and brings joy to millions around the globe. Transform your professional life by joining a team that values creativity, leadership, and visionary thinking. The Walt Disney Company stands at the forefront of industry innovation, constantly pushing the boundaries of what’s possible in entertainment and beyond. Lead with us from a unique position in the marketplace, where your skills in technology, creativity, and management converge to create extraordinary experiences. Collaborate with a diverse group of talented professionals, united in their passion for delivering magical experiences. Our team at The Walt Disney Company is composed of over 200,000 dedicated individuals who thrive in an environment that fosters growth, mentorship, and innovation. Introducing The Walt Disney Company Leadership and Professional Growth Programs We are committed to developing leaders who can navigate the challenges of the digital era and drive success across our various business segments. Our leadership programs are designed to hone your skills and prepare you for executive roles within the company. Do Innovative Work Join our team and contribute to projects that redefine the entertainment landscape. From groundbreaking films and television series to pioneering technological advancements, your work at The Walt Disney Company will set new standards in the creative and business worlds. Be Part of a Great Team Experience a culture that is inclusive, collaborative, and forward-thinking. Work alongside the best in the business and see how diversity and inclusion fuel our creativity and success. The Walt Disney Company’s commitment to a diverse workforce is evident in our hiring practices, training programs, and our everyday operations. Future-Proof Your Career With a wide array of benefits, continuous learning opportunities, and a network of supportive colleagues, your career at The Walt Disney Company is equipped for longevity and success. Our benefits package includes comprehensive health care, employee discounts, and access to exclusive company events and previews. Explore Job Opportunities and Internships Whether you’re a seasoned professional looking for your next challenge or a student seeking a transformative internship, The Walt Disney Company offers positions across a spectrum of fields and disciplines. Explore our career portal to find job opportunities that match your skills and passions. Stay Connected Join Our Team Search open positions, apply through our streamlined application process, and take the first step towards a magical career. We look for individuals who are passionate, curious, and eager to contribute to our legacy of storytelling and innovation. Keep Up to Date Stay informed with the latest company news, career tips, and insider perspectives—all from the people who make The Walt Disney Company a place of inspiration and excitement. Job Alert Emails Customize your subscription to receive job alerts and updates that align with your career interests. Discover the exciting and rewarding opportunities that await at The Walt Disney Company. Join us, and be part of the magic that only happens here at The Walt Disney Company!
Learn more about The Walt Disney Company
Size
190,000 employees
Market Cap
$155.1 billion
Industry
Net Income
-$4.9 billion
Founded
1923
5 Year Trend
+3.9%
Revenue
$60.7 billion
NASDAQ

Similar Jobs

More Jobs at The Walt Disney Company

More Retail & Consumer Goods Jobs

Find similar Manager, Merchandising jobs: