Pros
As a merchandise coordinator, you're able to service multiple brands in the industry including apparel, accessories and footwear. Having so many brands under your belt will help you build your resume and portfolio. For the most part you're able to create your own schedule. The pay is relatively decent but it depends on the project that's offered. Most of the time you're able to work independently.
Cons
Absolutely no room for growth...doesn't matter how many Winstonian testimonials you read on their site. Apparently there is a certain mold you have to fit in order to be considered for a promotion, position change, brand change and even an interview. The ridiculously petty office team can be very cult like and not in a good way. Management treat the field team like peons and constantly doubt your capabilities as a merchandiser, grown adult and a professional. Communication is quite awful and often condescending. Everyone is an adult but yet management will treat you like the adopted child. If you happen to speak up, all of a sudden you become the "problem child". Being the problem child = no hours on your calendar. "Oh, sorry we don't have any projects lined up for you at this time". Meanwhile Tom, who just started his job yesterday has 160 hrs for the month. The brands you service does not provide gratis, bonuses or a clothing allowance. Once a blue moon, a rep from the company will treat you to lunch. Funny thing is that Winston management HATES it when merchandisers build relationships with reps from the brands. You have to submit reports after EVERY store visit. The questions are rather repetitive but you must complete them in order to get paid. Keep in mind that you will not get paid for all of your work in a timely matter. The time you spend working on the reports will exceed the time that Winston will pay you to complete them,. You're expected to work major retail holidays without receiving holiday pay. Raise? What's that? Benefits, unheard of. Look forward to footing the bill for your seminars and extra travel. You'll get the money back by the end of the century. Management will snatch your hours away and lie saying that the client demanded it. Meanwhile when the client visit the store, they're wondering why there is little coverage on the sales floor. Upper management often keep key, vital information from the client and expect the field merchandisers to lie or keep silent. Very shady. 9 times out of 10, management is VERY dishonest. Its very important to keep record of all emails, texts and conversations. They will not hesitate to make a bold faced lie in order cover their tracks.
