Brand Manager

Job Title: Brand Manager Reports to: Blackstone Investment Group CEO Division: Haiku Location: Seattle, Washington Company Description: Blackstone Investment Group was formed in August of 2000 with the purchase of LuggageWorks, Inc., founded in Aurora, MO. After a series of acquisitions and company growth, Blackstone today is made up of a group of about twelve different businesses and/or brands that design manufacture, and sell mostly cut and sewn goods including luggage, hats and uniforms for airline and law enforcement professionals, as well as tents, h. ng gear, and gloves. Our mission is to bring high quality durable cut and sewn, welded and dipped goods to niche markets. About Haiku Bags: We are a Seattle-based sustainable women’s bag brand committed to combining ethical fashion, functionality, and style. Our mission is to create high-quality, Eco-friendly bags that empower women while minimizing environmental impact. As a lean business, we do not have a separate marketing or sales team—this role will be a Jack (or Jill) of all trades, responsible for driving brand strategy, sales, marketing, and financial oversight. You will work closely with the CEO and the product designer and developer, and customer service manager to shape the brand’s growth, making strategic decisions that directly impact the company’s success. Job Description:

As a Brand Manager, you will be at the forefront of brand development, sales growth, and financial responsibility. This role is hands-on and highly strategic, requiring a blend of sales acumen, marketing creativity, and business insight. You’ll be responsible for creating content for and driving direct-to-consumer (DTC) sales, securing wholesale partnerships, and executing impactful marketing initiatives while ensuring the brand’s financial sustainability. This is an exciting opportunity for a resourceful, entrepreneurial, and self-motivated individual who thrives in a fast-paced environment and wants to work closely with the CEO to make a direct impact on a growing brand.

Key Responsibilities: Sales & Business Development:

• Own and drive all sales efforts, including direct-to-consumer (DTC), online, and wholesale.
• Develop and maintain relationships with retailers, boutiques, and sustainable fashion stockists to expand distribution.
• Implement sales strategies, pricing models, and promotional campaigns to meet revenue goals.
• Identify and pursue new sales opportunities through networking, events, and strategic partnerships.
• Manage the brand’s presence at trade shows, pop-ups, and in-person sales events.

Brand Strategy & Development:

• Establish and maintain a strong brand identity that aligns with our sustainability mission.
• Ensure consistent brand voice, storytelling, and messaging across all touchpoints (website, packaging, social media, marketing materials, and retail partnerships).
• Stay ahead of industry trends, competitor activities, and consumer behavior to refine brand strategy.
• Work closely with the CEO to define long-term business and brand goals.

Marketing & Content Creation:

• Develop and execute creative marketing campaigns that drive awareness, engagement, and conversions.
• Create and manage social media strategy, including content creation, influencer collaborations, and paid media efforts.
• Partner with PR and media outlets to secure brand features in sustainability, fashion, and lifestyle publications.
• Oversee the development of high-quality content (videos, images, blog posts) that reinforce the brand’s mission.

E-Commerce & Customer Experience:

• Optimize the website and online store (Shopify) to ensure a seamless customer journey.
• Implement conversion rate optimization (CRO) strategies to increase online sales.
• Monitor customer feedback and insights to enhance the shopping experience.

Financial & Operational Responsibility:

• Oversee sales forecasts, budgets, and financial planning to ensure business profitability.
• Track and analyze sales performance, marketing ROI, and operational costs.
• Work closely with suppliers and manufacturers to manage costs, margins, and inventory levels.
• Provide regular business updates and strategic insights to the CEO.

Partnerships & Community Engagement:

• Build relationships with eco-conscious influencers, brand ambassadors, and sustainability advocates.
• Lead collaborations with like-minded brands, organizations, and community initiatives.
• Organize and participate in pop-up events, sustainability panels, and brand activations.

Qualifications: ✅ Entrepreneurial, hands-on, and self-sufficient—able to wear multiple hats in a small business.

✅ Passionate about sustainability, ethical fashion, and women’s empowerment.

✅ A sales-driven strategist with experience in business development, DTC sales, and wholesale partnerships.

✅ A creative marketer with expertise in social media, digital marketing, and content creation.

✅ Financially savvy—comfortable with budgeting, forecasting, and financial decision-making.

✅ Experienced in e-commerce (Shopify), CRM tools, and performance analytics.

✅ Comfortable working directly with the CEO and taking ownership of brand growth. Why Join Us? Mission-Driven Brand: Work with a company that prioritizes sustainability and ethical practices.

Seattle-Based Community: Be part of a creative, forward-thinking team in an eco-conscious city.

Growth Potential: Opportunity to shape and grow a rising brand with a dedicated customer base.

Creative & Strategic Leadership: Take full ownership of brand strategy, sales, and marketing.

Work Closely with the CEO: Be a key player in shaping the future of the company. How to Apply: If you’re excited about shaping the future of sustainable fashion and ready to take on a multi-faceted role, send your resume, portfolio, and a brief cover letter explaining why you’re a great fit to [reneep@carrygear.com]. Join us in redefining fashion with purpose! ️