Merchandiser

Objective

This position assists the brand manager in planning product and assortment strategies that meet or exceed financial goals. It involves coordinating all activities related to the allocation and delivery of merchandise across stores in the region, supporting pre-season financial planning, in-season forecasting, open-to-buy management, and budgeting for new store openings. The role also ensures a balanced collection at store level, along with timely replenishments and inter-store transfers.

Key responsibilities

• Assist in developing merchandise plans for categories based on historical trends, sales performance, and future outlooks provided by the brand team.
• Analyze store profiles using key reports such as stock weeks, sales blend, and inventory by grade to support allocation decisions.
• Execute in-season stock analysis and balancing, markdown management, and stock-versus-sales performance reviews.
• Plan merchandise mix and execute initial allocations and reserve management based on pre-distribution plans.
• Finalize seasonal assortment plans and size run books in collaboration with the senior merchandiser.
• Monitor competitor brands’ product lines, pricing, and category developments.
• Ensure compliance with stock ageing standards and maintain stock turns in line with company policy.
• Support margin negotiations, order placements, and stock distribution decisions.
• Monitor bestsellers and slow movers, taking timely actions to drive performance.
• Track actual sales versus forecasts and coordinate inventory checks and replenishments based on store-level needs and upcoming events.
• Conduct regular market visits with the brand manager to assess store execution and gather competitor intelligence.
• Provide post-season feedback reports on product categories.
• Participate in seasonal markdown and sales planning in collaboration with the category or brand manager.

Desired experience

• Two to five years of experience in retail merchandising or a similar role within the fashion or lifestyle industry.
• Proficiency in inventory management systems, Microsoft Excel, and PowerPoint.
• Strong understanding of product strategy, vendor coordination, range development, and trend analysis.
• A bachelor’s degree in business, retail operations, merchandising, or a related field is preferred.