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Job Title: Merchandiser Manager – Home Textiles Location: Karur Department: Merchandising Reporting To: Head – Business Development / Director – Operations Experience: 8–15 years in home textile merchandising (Export/Domestic) Qualification: B.Tech (Textile Technology) / B.Sc (Textile Design) / MBA (Textile Management or International Business preferred) Job Summary: The Merchandiser Manager will spearhead the entire merchandising lifecycle from design brief to shipment, ensuring that home textile products meet international quality, compliance, and sustainability standards. This role requires a strong understanding of textile construction, finishes, sustainable materials, compliance frameworks, and buyer-specific protocols. The candidate will also manage client accounts, ensure T&A adherence, and bridge the interface between sales, product development, sourcing, and production. Key Responsibilities: 1. Buyer Account Management Act as a primary interface for buyers (IKEA, Target, H&M, Walmart, etc.) Analyze buyer tech packs, mood boards, and RFPs and translate into internal specifications Conduct regular video calls, WIP updates, and buyer presentations 2. Product Development & Sampling Coordinate with the design and sampling teams to create cost-effective, production-feasible products Technically evaluate fabric construction (e.g., GSM, thread count, weave type) and finishing (enzymes, calendaring, sanforizing, etc.) Work on home categories: bedsheets, duvets, comforters, curtains, table linen, kitchen linen, cushion covers, and throws Review lab dips, strike-offs, and PP samples and provide buyer submissions 3. Costing & Negotiation Perform detailed cost breakdowns: fabric cost, processing, trims, packaging, freight, duties, margins Optimize yield and layout to reduce waste and increase profitability Negotiate with suppliers/subcontractors for competitive pricing 4. Time & Action (TNA) & Order Execution Create and monitor TNA calendars from order confirmation to shipment Ensure coordination between weaving, dyeing, printing, finishing, and stitching teams Troubleshoot production and quality issues proactively 5. Compliance & Technical Documentation Understand and adhere to buyer-specific compliance protocols (e.g., BSCI, SEDEX, OEKO-TEX, GOTS, GRS, FSC) Coordinate testing and certifications (color fastness, shrinkage, azo-free, REACH, flammability standards for the US/EU markets) Maintain accurate technical files, BOM, and QAPs 6. Logistics & Documentation Liaise with the commercial team for LC documentation, Bill of Lading, packing lists, and invoices Coordinate with freight forwarders for booking and shipment Ensure all shipment deadlines are met per Incoterms (FOB, CIF, DDP, etc.) 7. Team Leadership Lead and develop a team of junior merchandisers, designers, and sampling coordinators Conduct training on buyer protocols, quality standards, and internal SOPs Maintain performance dashboards and review metrics regularly Technical Skills Required: Deep knowledge of textile constructions: Percale, Sateen, Dobby, Jacquard, Slub, Yarn-dyed, Digital and Rotary Printing Familiar with finishing techniques: Bio-polishing, Mercerizing, Softening, Flame-retardant, Water-repellency ERP and PLM system familiarity (SAP, WFX, Texpa, etc.) Excel – pivot tables, cost sheets, TNA trackers Familiarity with CAD systems or design tools is a plus (Photoshop, Illustrator, NedGraphics) Soft Skills & Attributes: High attention to detail Excellent communication and interpersonal skills Strong time management and multi-tasking ability Problem-solving orientation and commercial acumen Global mindset and understanding of sustainability trends in textiles Show more Show less
