Vice President, Wholesale
San Francisco, CA
At Rothy's, we know there's a better way to do business, and it starts by putting the planet and its people first. More than 179 million single-use plastic bottles and 629,000 pounds of ocean-bound marine plastic have been transformed into our signature thread, creating wardrobe staples that look just as good as they feel.
Striving for zero waste, we combine 3D knitting technology and handcrafted assembly to create machine washable styles that don't compromise on comfort. From classic shoes to carry-everywhere bags, we create essentials for wherever you go.
At Rothy's, building a sustainable future is at the heart of everything we do. We pride ourselves on fostering an inclusive environment at our HQ, retail stores and wholly-owned factory, and are growing our community every day.
About the Team:
The Merchandising and Planning team is always on top of the latest trends—using data, research, exceptional taste and expert analytical skills to ensure we've got the right product in the right places at the right time. They work closely with partners in Production, Ecommerce and Inventory Planning to forecast, plan and manage our inventory—ensuring we delight our customers with products they love.
We're looking for a VP/Head of Wholesale to develop and drive the strategy for our new wholesale channel to fuel profitable sales growth. You will work closely with a broad range of cross functional partners including merchandising, marketing, inventory planning, finance and operations to design and execute the strategy and bring the Rothy's brand to new consumers. The successful candidate will have deep experience in wholesale within the footwear, accessories or apparel industry, an entrepreneurial mindset and strong drive for profit-driven growth. The VP/Head of Wholesale will hire, lead and develop a new team to achieve this growth and results for the channel and will report to the Chief Product & Merchandising Officer.
What you'll do:
- Develop and execute a comprehensive build-out strategy to drive profitable wholesale revenue growth and significantly increase market share
- Identify potential wholesale partners, both domestically and internationally. Establish and maintain strong relationships
- Develop and implement accurate sales forecasting by account to aid in forecasting company growth and margin implications of this new channel on our overall business and to optimize inventory planning and production
- Analyze sales data, market trends, and customer feedback to identify opportunities and make informed business decisions
- Prepare regular sales reports highlighting key insights and recommendations. Fuel channel growth through in-season management, course correction and swaps
- Negotiate favorable terms for Rothy's across all aspects of the business and legal terms. Take a central role in aligning the internal teams and business partners needed to secure profitable sign off
- Work closely with Finance on initial P&L assumptions prior to entering into any agreements as well as on actualizing P&L performance at quarter end, to gauge profitability by account and by partnership construct
- Ensure seamless account management and operations in support of the wholesale channel from end to end, both internally with the cross-functional team, as well as externally with market partners. Leverage great communication and organizational skills to keep all teams informed and ensure efficient operations
- Communicate effectively across internal and external partners including preparing and maintaining accurate wholesale line sheets, costing/pricing, terms negotiations, legal documentation and cross-functional internal communications
You are:
- Passionate for sustainability and have the ability to effectively communicate Rothy's values and mission to partners
- Exceptional in negotiation, communication, and interpersonal skills
- Exceptional in building and maintaining effective cross functional relationships
- Experienced in leading and building a Wholesale team
- Proven experience effectively managing a channel P&L, understanding levers, critical inputs and financial relationships to yield most profitable bottom line growth
- Highly collaborative in your approach, sharing all information needed to keep the entire team abreast of developments and decisions for best possible outcome
You have:
- Proven track record of success in strategic planning, establishing and growing wholesale business lines through a variety of partners including department stores, specialty retailers, marketplace and IRL shops
- Deep knowledge of the wholesale fashion industry, including buyer relationships, market dynamics, and retail trends
- Analytical mindset with the ability to interpret sales data, market trends, and consumer insights to drive sales strategies
- Proven experience hiring, developing and engaging top talent
- Proactive and consistent communication, shares continuous feedback to team and individual development, and holds everyone accountable for meeting these expectations
- Ability to lead by example, coach team members by sharing knowledge and experiences and acts as a role model. Known as someone people want to work for and follow
- Ability to effectively lead the department through complex, ambiguous situations and change
- Ability to travel as needed to customers, trade shows, etc.
- Taste level and physical ability to set up showroom product spaces for quarterly market appointments with buyers
Our benefits:
- Generous paid time off
- 401k matching
- Comprehensive health plans for you and your family
- Supplemental mental health benefits
- Monthly wellness reimbursement
- Employee Discount Program!
Pay range:
$220,000 - $260,000 annually
Base pay is one part of the total rewards package that is provided to compensate and recognize employees for their work. This role may be eligible for additional discretionary bonuses/incentives, as well as a comprehensive benefits package.
