General Manager - Production & Merchandising

Role Overview: You will be responsible for leading the end-to-end merchandising and production process for high-fashion export orders. This includes driving product development, sampling, and ensuring timely buyer communications. You will manage production planning, T&A calendars, and oversee timely deliveries. Collaboration with design, sourcing, and QA teams is crucial to maintain product quality and compliance. Building and nurturing strong buyer and vendor relationships to ensure satisfaction and repeat business will be a key part of your role. Additionally, you will analyze performance metrics, optimize processes, and contribute to profitability. Keeping abreast of global fashion trends, buyer expectations, and material innovations is essential. Supporting sustainability initiatives and ensuring adherence to social and technical compliance standards will also be part of your responsibilities. Key Responsibilities: - Strong understanding of global fashion trends & buyer requirements - Experience in product development & sampling - Excellent buyer communication & relationship management - Costing, negotiation & order finalization - Seasonal line planning and range development - End-to-end production planning & coordination - T&A (Time & Action) calendar monitoring - Capacity planning, line allocation, and load balancing - Knowledge of fabrics, trims, and surface embellishments - Quality assurance processes & standards (AQL, inline, final inspection) - Leading large cross-functional teams (merchandisers, production planners, QA, etc.) - Managing vendor/supplier relationships - Coordination with design, sampling, and sourcing teams - Familiarity with high-fashion garments (woven, embellished, embroidery-heavy, etc.) - Fabric knowledge high-end silks, chiffons, organzas, etc. - Compliance (social, technical audits), sustainability awareness - Proficiency in ERP/PLM systems, Excel, T&A tools - Strategic thinking with a strong business acumen - Leadership and team motivation - Strong communication & presentation skills - Problem-solving under pressure - Attention to detail and follow-through Qualification Required: - Experience in merchandising and production management in the fashion industry - Strong knowledge of global fashion trends and buyer requirements - Proficiency in production planning, T&A monitoring, and quality assurance processes - Excellent communication and relationship management skills - Ability to lead cross-functional teams and manage vendor relationships - Familiarity with high-fashion garments and fabric types - Knowledge of compliance standards and sustainability practices - Proficiency in ERP/PLM systems, Excel, and T&A tools (Note: Additional details about the company were not provided in the job description.),