International Brand Operations Specialist

At Designer Brands, we are the proud parent company of DSW Designer Shoe Warehouse, The Shoe Company, and Rubino, operating nearly 675 stores across North America and a billion-dollar digital commerce business. We lead the footwear industry with a diverse portfolio of iconic brands, including Topo Athletic, Keds, Vince Camuto, Kelly & Katie, Jessica Simpson, Lucky Brand, Mix No. 6, Crown Vintage, and others. With expertise in design, production, and sourcing, we create on-trend footwear and accessories, delivered through a robust omni-channel infrastructure and national wholesale distribution. At Designer Brands, we are committed to fostering a culture of collaboration, innovation, and inclusivity, where each employee’s unique perspective contributes to our success. Anchored by our core values of “We Love What We Do,” “We Own What We Do,” “We Do What’s Right,” and “We Belong,” we continuously drive forward together, building a future where everyone can put their best foot forward.

International Brand Operations Specialist

At Designer Brands, we move fast, collaborate globally, and bring our brands to life across markets. This role sits at the center of that work, connecting our international partners with internal teams to ensure every product journey runs smoothly from concept to customer.

The Opportunity

As the International Brand Operations Specialist, you will be the key connector between our international distributors, retail partners, and Designer Brands teams. You will help turn strategy into action by managing the operational details that bring our products to market globally.

This role is ideal for someone who enjoys working across cultures, building strong relationships, and keeping complex processes moving forward with accuracy and care.

What you'll be doing

Global Partner Coordination

• Serve as the primary point of contact for international distributors and retail partners
• Share seasonal operational details by brand, including:
• Minimum order quantities (MOQs)
• Order timelines and windows
• Product details, pricing, and factory information
• Communicate policies, guidelines, and resources such as:
• Compliance manuals
• Storage requirements
• Factory updates

Order & Sample Management

• Manage seasonal sample submissions and purchase orders:
• Entry, tracking, and maintenance
• Confirm and coordinate order details including:
• Purchase orders
• Ex-factory dates
• Shipping details and labeling requirements

Production & Shipment Tracking

• Monitor production on a weekly basis and provide timely updates
• Coordinate key manufacturing updates, including:
• Shipment consolidations
• Factory delays or transfers
• Partial or short shipments
• Quality claims and payment updates
• Help ensure smooth product pickup and delivery across markets

Performance Tracking & Reporting

• Compile and track seasonal KPIs such as:
• On-time pickup
• Payment timelines
• Order accuracy and tracking
• Share backlog and order reports to support revenue and inventory planning

Process Improvement & Problem Solving

• Identify opportunities to improve processes and share best practices
• Help standardize international operations across brands and regions
• Develop solutions to address moderately complex operational challenges

What you'll need

Experience & Education

• 5+ years of experience in international sourcing operations, process management, or a related operational role
• Bachelor’s degree in International Business, Business Administration, Sourcing Operations, or similar experience

Core Skills

• Strong organization skills with attention to detail
• Clear written and verbal communication
• Working knowledge of cross-functional brand operations
• A solution-focused mindset with the ability to adapt in a fast-changing environment
• Ability to manage competing priorities while maintaining professionalism and strong partner support

Global Mindset

• Interest in learning about and working across different regions, cultures, and perspectives
• Flexibility to collaborate across global time zones when needed
• Ability to travel to Massachusetts or Ohio as required

Preferred Qualifications

• Familiarity with international business models and operational requirements
• Experience in footwear supply chain and logistics
• Multilingual capabilities are an asset

Perks and Benefits You’ll Enjoy!  

• Your Sole Well-Being: Our benefits package is crafted with our associates in mind! We support you with benefits like free virtual health care, robust family/fertility benefits, 401(k) w/ match, and more. Explore our offerings at https://mymobilewalletcard.com/dbi
• Stride with Flexibility: We offer hybrid and remote work opportunities, giving you the freedom to stay connected, productive, and inspired—wherever you do your best work
• Stepping Up Your Career: Take advantage of training programs, professional development, and education assistance to advance your career with a company that celebrates bold ideas and fresh perspectives
• We are Shoe-Obsessed: Because we know a great pair of shoes can change your day, you’ll enjoy 30% off at DSW & com, plus discounts across our family of brands.