Head of Merchandising

COMPANY:

POSITION:

LOCATION:

SALARY:

OVERVIEW:

This role oversees the full merchandising function for a large-scale apparel operation, driving business growth, supplier performance, financial outcomes, and organizational capability. The position requires strong leadership, strategic thinking, regional market understanding, and the ability to build and maintain high-level buyer relationships.

RESPONSIBILITIES:

• Identify new business opportunities across products and suppliers through reliable sources.

• Review and set annual budgets to ensure sufficient staffing, supplier readiness, and standard operating procedures to meet business expectations.

• Forecast monthly sales and profitability against budget and implement corrective actions where required.

• Maintain regular communication with UK buying/merchandising teams to understand improvement areas and align on expectations.

• Travel to the UK 2–3 times annually to meet Buying Managers, Merchandisers, and other stakeholders, strengthening relationships and gathering market insights.

• Identify operational risks within the region, communicate proactively to management, and develop contingency plans.

• Conduct annual supplier seminars and recognize top performers to drive improved reliability and service levels.

• Explore and onboard new manufacturers while optimizing capacity and facilities of existing suppliers.

• Visit fabric mills, laundries, and factories to ensure product standards, compliance, and service levels are consistently met.

• Recruit, train, and develop team members in line with business needs and SOPs.

• Identify and develop high-potential employees, supporting long-term retention and career growth.

• Conduct regular performance reviews for senior managers and set semiannual objectives.

• Review and update SOPs annually; ensure organizational awareness of changing trends, buying patterns, and lead times.

• Update supplier manuals based on buyer requirements and ensure alignment with evolving standards.

• Review monthly financial statements and introduce cost-reduction measures to maximize profitability.

• Review annual audit findings and ensure timely resolution of local tax matters.

• Ensure HR and administrative operations support a positive working environment and comply with local labor laws and regulations.

PRE-REQUISITES:

Apparel/Textile, Business Management, Marketing

merchandising within the apparel manufacturing sector

• Proven experience managing large vendor networks, product categories, and complex supply chains.

Experience working in an APPAREL BUYING OFFICE is a must.

• Strong leadership and people-management capability with experience guiding senior managers.

• Excellent communication, negotiation, and relationship-building skills.

• Ability to travel internationally and maintain strong stakeholder engagement.