Subject Matter Expert (Retail Taxonomy & Product Classification)

Position

Position Overview

We are seeking an experienced Retail Industry Subject Matter Expert with deep expertise in product classification and taxonomy systems. This role will design and curate product categorization frameworks that serve as the foundation for machine learning models aimed at automating data annotation across retail sectors including fashion, furniture, electronics, and consumer goods.

Key Responsibilities

- Design comprehensive, scalable product classification systems and taxonomies aligned with retail industry standards across multiple categories

- Develop hierarchical categorization structures, standardized attribute libraries, and metadata schemas for diverse product types

- Curate representative product datasets and define data quality standards for classification

- Collaborate with machine learning teams to translate retail taxonomy into training data requirements conducive to ML model development

- Create detailed documentation and classification guidelines ensuring consistency with retail best practices

- Work cross-functionally with data science, product management, and retail operations teams

Required Qualifications

Experience

- 7+ years in retail with direct exposure to product management, merchandising, catalog management, or Product Information Management (PIM)

- Proven experience designing or managing product classification systems at scale across diverse retail categories

Domain Expertise

- Deep understanding of retail product classification principles and industry-standard taxonomy frameworks

- Strong knowledge of merchandising hierarchies, product attributes, and categorization logic

- Understanding of how product classification supports search, merchandising, inventory, and reporting functions

Technical Skills

- Proficiency with PIM systems, Master Data Management (MDM), or catalog management platforms

- Strong analytical skills with ability to work with large datasets and identify patterns and inconsistencies

- Excellent documentation skills with ability to create clear classification guidelines

Soft Skills

- Systematic thinking with ability to create logical hierarchies

- Strong collaboration and communication skills for technical and non-technical audiences

- Detail-oriented with iterative problem-solving approach

Good to Have

- Familiarity with data annotation processes and tools used in ML projects

- Basic understanding of machine learning concepts and training data requirements

- Exposure to NLP, computer vision, or image recognition applications in retail

- Knowledge of data labeling platforms or annotation workflow management

- Experience working with AI/ML teams

Education

- Bachelor's degree

Role & responsibilities

Preferred candidate profile