Branded Merchandise Manager

WHO WE ARE Continuum is not your typical marketing execution and creative services company. We work as an extension of our clients’ teams, delivering custom, physical marketing solutions – from direct mail and print, to in-store and experiential – in ways that make budgets go further and drive better results. This is a place where you can do meaningful work, be part of the team, and help our clients grow. Connect with us on LinkedIn! https://www.linkedin.com/company/continuuminc/ Check out our website here: https://www.continuummarketing.com/ WHAT DOES THE BRANDED MERCHANDISE SPECIALIST DO? As a Branded Merchandise Manager , you will lead the end-to-end execution of branded merchandise programs, supporting large-scale marketing campaigns from concept through delivery. You will advise clients on product selection, materials, decoration methods, and feasibility, ensuring all outputs align with brand standards, timelines, and budget objectives. You’ll manage schedules, coordinate with vendors and deliver projects on time and on budget. You will also own job setup, purchase order management, freight reconciliation, and invoicing within the production management system. Working closely with both internal and client teams, you’ll ensure campaigns run smoothly from concept to completion. This role is remote, with occasional travel to New York City, supplier facilities, and Continuum headquarters in Chicago, IL. A TYPICAL WEEK MAY LOOK LIKE THIS: Monday – Review active project schedules, prioritize deliverables, and align on key deadlines. Enter new jobs into the production management system and ensure all projects are properly set up for execution. Join internal and client status calls to review progress, flag risks, and confirm next steps. Tuesday – Source branded merchandise solutions for upcoming campaigns. Review supplier quotes, timelines, and specifications. Negotiate costs, confirm capacity, issue purchase orders, and validate alignment on delivery expectations. Wednesday – Partner with client marketing and creative teams in kickoff meetings. Translate campaign objectives into tangible merchandise concepts, including product selection, decoration methods, and production plans. Thursday – Monitor production across multiple projects. Review proofs, troubleshoot vendor or logistics issues, and ensure quality standards are met. Track shipments, reconcile freight charges, and proactively communicate updates and risks. Friday – Review project financials, including estimates vs. actuals. Validate costs, finalize billing, and issue invoices. Identify opportunities for cost savings, process improvements, and efficiencies to enhance future execution. WHO ARE YOU? Client-Focused – Skilled at building strong relationships and committed to understanding client needs to deliver branded merchandise solutions that align with campaign goals, timelines, and budgets. Execution-Oriented – Experienced in managing the end-to-end execution of promotional products programs, including sourcing, proofing, production, and delivery across multiple concurrent projects. Detail-Oriented & Organized – Able to manage multiple orders, specifications, and deadlines with precision, ensuring accuracy across proofs, orders, and production timelines. Solutions-Driven Problem Solver – Comfortable troubleshooting supplier, production, or logistics challenges and identifying practical solutions to keep projects moving forward. Collaborative Communicator – Works effectively with clients, suppliers, and internal teams, maintaining clear, timely communication to ensure alignment and smooth execution. EXPERIENCE / QUALIFICATIONS: 5+ years of experience in the promotional products or branded merchandise industry. Experience sourcing products, managing suppliers, and overseeing production timelines Strong understanding of decoration methods, materials, and manufacturing processes Experience with purchasing, RFQs, vendor negotiation, and purchase order management Experience with production management or order management systems (e.g., CommonSKU or similar) Proven ability to manage multiple projects while maintaining quality and accuracy Strong financial acumen, including budget tracking, cost analysis, freight reconciliation, and invoicing Advanced proficiency in Microsoft Excel; working knowledge of Word and PowerPoint Familiarity with Adobe Illustrator is a plus Excellent written and verbal communication skills Ability to work in a fast-paced, deadline-driven environment ESG Statement : We strive to make our world better by utilizing ingenuity and technology to minimize our environmental impact, cultivating a business that recognizes the intrinsic value of diversity and inclusion, and requiring accountability, transparency, and integrity in everything we do. CJK Group is an Equal Opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to sex, gender identity, sexual orientation, race, color, religion, national origin, disability, protected Veteran status, age, or any other characteristic protected by law.