Job Description

Position Summary
The Merchandiser is a strategic and analytical role responsible for driving profitability and sales through effective product selection, pricing, inventory management, and presentation strategy. This individual will act as the crucial link between the customer, the market, and the product, using data-driven insights to make decisions that maximize financial performance and align with the company's brand vision.
Key Responsibilities
1. Range Planning & Product Strategy:

• Develop and execute seasonal merchandising strategies and product assortments that align with sales forecasts, market trends, and company financial goals.
• Analyze historical sales data, current trends, and customer feedback to plan product ranges (styles, colors, sizes, quantities).
• Collaborate closely with the Buying team to select products that meet the merchandising plan and target customer profile.
• Define pricing architecture (initial markup, promotional pricing, markdown strategies) to achieve margin goals.

2. Inventory Management & Analysis:

• Monitor and manage inventory levels across all sales channels (stores, e-commerce) to minimize stockouts and excess inventory.
• Analyze sales performance and stock levels (Sell-Through Rates, Weeks of Supply, Stock Turn) to make informed recommendations on replenishment, allocation, and markdowns.
• Forecast future product demand and sales trends to inform buying and production decisions.
• Identify slow-moving products and develop action plans to clear aged stock.

3. Financial Performance:

• Be accountable for key financial metrics for a specific product category or department, including sales, gross margin return on investment (GMROI), markdown rates, and overall profitability.
• Create and manage open-to-buy (OTB) plans to ensure financial budgets are adhered to.
• Report on category performance, providing insights and recommendations to senior management.

4. Cross-Functional Collaboration:

• Work hand-in-hand with Buyers to develop a commercially viable product range.
• Partner with Planners and Allocators to ensure the right product is in the right place at the right time.
• Collaborate with the Marketing team to align product launches and promotions with merchandising strategies.
• Provide direction to the Visual Merchandising team on how products should be presented in-store and online to maximize sales.

5. Market & Competitor Analysis:

• Conduct regular competitor analysis to understand their pricing, product assortment, and promotional strategies.
• Stay abreast of consumer trends, market shifts, and industry best practices.

Qualifications and Skills
Education & Experience:

• Bachelor's degree in Business, Fashion Merchandising, Marketing, or a related field.
• Proven experience (typically 3-5 years) in a merchandising, buying, or planning role within a retail environment.

Technical Skills:

• High proficiency in Microsoft Excel (pivot tables, vlookups, complex formulas) is essential.
• Experience with ERP and merchandising systems (e.g., SAP, BlueCherry, MS Dynamics) and retail analytics software.
• Strong analytical skills with the ability to interpret complex data and translate it into actionable strategies.

Soft Skills:

• Commercial Acumen: A strong understanding of what drives sales and profit.
• Strategic Thinker: Ability to see the big picture and plan for the long term.
• Excellent Communication: Ability to present ideas and influence stakeholders at all levels.
• Negotiation Skills: Comfortable negotiating with internal teams and occasionally suppliers.
• Problem-Solver: Proactive in identifying issues and developing effective solutions.
• Highly Organized: Ability to manage multiple tasks and deadlines in a fast-paced environment.
• Attention to Detail: Meticulous in analyzing data and managing product information.

Working Conditions

• Standard office hours, though additional hours may be required during peak seasons (e.g., holiday, seasonal launches).
• This role may be based in an office, with options for hybrid work depending on the company.
• Some travel may be required for market visits, trade shows, or store visits.

Skills Required