Product Development Assistant

JOB SUMMARY:Support Product Manager in the management of assigned category.ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES:Manage the approval process for all products purchased in area of responsibility. This includes logging in lab dips, reviewing strike off comments with CFT and advising vendor, reviewing trims, bulk prints, PP samples, and TOP samples etc.Track progress of all styles on order to ensure production/delivery is on time. This includes monitoring WIPS and shipment reports etc.Timely, clear and concise e-mail/communications with vendors and/or Cato overseas offices as well as CFT.Attend fit sessions and direct comments to appropriate parties if corrections are needed.Build and maintain relationships with Cross Functional Team (CFT)Maintain FLEX PLM for styles in category.Maintain production files for styles in category.Support special projects and cross-functional initiatives as assigned.QUALIFICATIONS:EDUCATION: Four-year college degree or equivalent. EXPERIENCE: Exposure to retail or textile industry. This can be through fields of study or practical experience.SKILLS REQUIRED:Detail oriented/highly organized.Excellent written and verbal communication skills. Ability to communicate clearly and succinctly with overseas vendors and Cato counterparts in Asia.Ability to manage multiple tasks and work with multiple cross functional partners.Excellent computer skills in Microsoft Word, Excel, Microsoft Outlook.REQUIRED PRE-EMPLOYMENT/SKILLS TESTING:Drug Test/Criminal Background ScreenMicrosoft OutlookMicrosoft ExcelBasic Office SkillsOffice Math Skills