Retail Merchandiser-Bridal

Role Objective:

To lead the Bridal/Wedding category at BIBA including Sarees, SKDs (Salwar Kameez Dupatta sets), Lehengas, and Occasion wear — by creating commercially strong, trend-led collections that resonate with the modern Indian bride while maintaining the BIBA design DNA.

The role is responsible for driving the product strategy, range planning, pricing, vendor development, and execution to achieve business growth and profitability.

Key Responsibilities:

Category Strategy & Planning

• Develop the seasonal merchandise plan for the Bridal/Wedding category, covering Sarees, SKDs, Lehengas, and Festive Occasion wear.
• Define the product architecture across occasions, price bands, silhouettes, and fabrics
• Identify emerging trends, regional preferences, and consumer insights to guide product direction.
• Set category targets on revenue, margins, and sell-through.

Range Development & Product Execution

• Collaborate with Design and Fabric teams to develop collections that balance innovation, trend, and commerciality.
• Finalize the product range, ensuring an ideal mix of hero styles, volume drivers, and statement pieces.
• Oversee sampling, fabric/trims approvals, and ensure product quality aligns with brand standards.
• Track T&A adherence from development to dispatch, ensuring on-time market availability.

Vendor Development & Management

• Build and maintain a strong vendor network across all categories — Sarees, SKDs, Lehengas, and Occasion wear.
• Evaluate, onboard, and manage vendors to ensure capability, quality, and delivery reliability.
• Negotiate effectively to achieve cost efficiencies without compromising quality and timelines.
• Drive continuous vendor performance improvement through regular feedback and audits.

Business & Performance Management

• Monitor category performance across channels — EBOs, MBOs, and Online — and drive corrective actions.
• Analyse sell-throughs, margins, and inventory health to optimize buying and production.
• Recommend pricing, markdown, and liquidation strategies for slow-moving SKUs.
• Partner with Retail Planning for store-wise assortment and stock management.

Cross-Functional Coordination

• Work with Marketing, VM, and E-commerce teams for effective product launches and campaign storytelling.
• Provide product training to retail teams to enhance customer engagement and conversion.
• Coordinate with Production and Sourcing for smooth execution and timely deliveries.

Desired Candidate Profile:

• Graduate/Postgraduate in Fashion Management, Apparel Merchandising, or Textile Design (NIFT, Pearl, or equivalent).
• 8–12 years of experience in apparel merchandising, with a minimum of 3–5 years in ethnic/occasion wear or bridal category (mandatory).
• Strong product knowledge of Sarees, SKDs, Lehengas, fabrics, embroideries, and surface ornamentation.
• Excellent vendor network and proven vendor management skills across product categories.
• Strong analytical, planning, and negotiation skills.
• Excellent sense of colour, fabric, and silhouette relevant to Indian weddings and festive wear.

Key Competencies:

• Product & Trend Sensibility
• Commercial & Analytical Acumen
• Vendor Development & Coordination
• Negotiation & Cost Management
• Timely Execution & Attention to Detail
• Cross-Functional Collaboration

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