Product Development Merchandiser

Job Title:

Product Development & Merchandising Executive/AM Handicrafts

Department:

Product Development / Merchandising

Job Summary:

The Product Development & Merchandising Manager will be responsible for leading the design, development, and merchandising of handicraft products across categories such as home dcor, textiles, gifts, lifestyle, and accessories. The role involves trend research, product conceptualization, coordination with artisans and vendors, sampling, cost negotiations, order management, and ensuring timely delivery of innovative and high-quality products for domestic and international markets.

Key Responsibilities:

Product Development

• Conduct market research and trend analysis to identify new design opportunities in handicrafts.
• Develop innovative and commercially viable product collections aligned with artisans expectations and seasonal trends.
• Source sustainable raw materials and techniques to enhance product value.
• Work closely with artisans, craft clusters, and vendors for sampling and prototyping.
• Ensure product quality, finishing, and compliance standards are met.

Merchandising

• Prepare and present product ranges and collections.
• Manage costing, pricing, and margin analysis for product lines.
• Plan production timelines and ensure smooth execution of confirmed orders.
• Maintain strong relationships with clients, artisans, and suppliers.

Order & Vendor Management

• Track orders from sampling to final shipment, ensuring deadlines are met.
• Negotiate with vendors for cost efficiency and timely deliveries.
• Monitor production schedules and resolve issues related to delays or quality.
• Manage replenishment and execution of running orders.

Reporting & Analysis

• Prepare MIS reports on sampling, order status, and sales performance.
• Monitor category-wise performance and recommend improvements.
• Maintain databases of product specifications

Key Skills & Competencies:

• Strong knowledge of handicrafts, artisan techniques, and raw materials.
• Creative design sense with an eye for detail and finishing.
• Proficiency in MS Excel, PowerPoint, and merchandising software/tools.

Qualifications & Experience:

• Graduate/Postgraduate in

  Design, Fashion, Textile, Handicrafts, or Merchandising

  .
• 5+ years of experience in product development & merchandising, preferably in handicrafts or lifestyle/home dcor and Retail sector.
• Experience in working with artisan clusters will be an added advantage.

Preferred candidate profile

From art and craft / Handicraft Sector