Merchandising Manager

Role & responsibilities

Merchandising Strategy and Planning:

• Develop and execute merchandising strategies aligned with the company's overall business goals and market trends.
• Analyse market research, consumer insights, and competitor activities to identify opportunities and formulate effective merchandising plans.
• Collaborate with senior management to define product assortment plans, pricing strategies, and promotional activities.

Product Development and Assortment Planning:

• Collaborate with design and product development teams to conceptualize and develop product lines that meet market trends and customer demands.
• Conduct market research and competitor analysis to identify product opportunities and gaps in the market.
• Plan and manage product assortments, ensuring they are aligned with the merchandising strategy and financial targets.

Sales and Customer Relationship Management:

• Manage customer relationships, understanding their requirements, and providing exceptional customer service.
• Collaborate with customers to develop customized product lines, negotiate contracts, and address any concerns or issues.
• Monitor sales performance, analyse sell-through data, and identify opportunities to maximize sales and profitability.

Supplier and Vendor Management:

• Collaborate with sourcing and procurement teams to select and manage suppliers and vendors.
• Negotiate pricing, terms, and contracts with suppliers to ensure competitive advantage and profitability.
• Monitor supplier performance, address issues, and maintain strong partnerships to ensure timely and reliable supply of products.

Pricing and Profitability Management:

• Develop pricing strategies that maximize profitability while remaining competitive in the market.
• Monitor market trends, pricing levels, and competitor activities to make informed pricing decisions.
• Analyze pricing structures, margins, and profitability of products, and make recommendations for pricing adjustments and promotional activities.

Cross-Functional Collaboration:

• Collaborate with cross-functional teams, including design, product development, production, and marketing, to ensure effective communication and alignment of merchandising plans.
• Work closely with the design team to ensure product aesthetics and quality meet customer expectations and brand standards.
• Coordinate with marketing teams to develop effective marketing campaigns and promotional activities.

Team Leadership and Development:

• Lead and manage the merchandising team, providing guidance, mentorship, and performance feedback.
• Set clear goals and objectives, conduct performance evaluations, and identify opportunities for skill development and career growth.
• Foster a collaborative and high-performance work culture, promoting innovation, teamwork, and operational excellence.

Data Analysis and Reporting:

• Utilize data analytics and reporting tools to monitor key performance indicators (KPIs) and track the effectiveness of merchandising strategies.
• Prepare regular reports on sales performance, inventory levels, product performance, and market trends.
• Analyze data to identify areas for improvement, make data-driven decisions, and recommend action plans.