JOB DESCRIPTION
JOB TITLE: Merchandiser
REPORTING TO: Director of Merchandising
ROLE PURPOSE: To plan and trade product in area of responsibility by developing effective merchandise and range plans, managing performance in season and by effective management of supply chain in order to drive profit in line with agreed financial parameters and the category strategy.
KEY ACCOUNTABILITIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES
Develop the Proposition
· Develop strategy to support the category strategy
Range Planning
· Diarise strategy (stage 1) meetings with category management based on critical path
· Review past seasons performance/forecast
· Define growth drivers
· Create the sales and profit parameter plan
· Create stock plans and OTB plan
· Create WSSI at class/department/season
· Create sub-dept plans
· Review brand/supplier performance and profitability
· Develop cluster strategy at class level
· Create store plans, grade matrix and range plans
· Support Buyers negotiation with suppliers
· Authorise purchase orders
Store Planning – New, Refurbishment & Like for Like
· Develop sales plan and allocate brand/department space
· Plan stock builds
· Deliver opening stock package
Trade the Proposition
· Reforecast sales and profit parameters monthly
· Manage stock levels and forecast to support sales
· Manage markdown by;
· Managing OTB plan and forecast at class and department level
· Releasing markdown within OTB plan and propose release outside the plan by department
· Manage allocation and replenishment
· Ensure cross- docking is achieved where applicable
· Deal with sale or return, transfer or recall
· Manage concession performance
· Ensure supplier/brand review pack is produced and attend in season trading review meetings
· Plan and attend production meeting
· Support buyer to manage disputes with suppliers
Support the Proposition
· Agree promotion plans
Manage People
· Identify recruitment needs
· Assess, interview and select candidates for team roles
· Select candidates and feedback to unsuccessful applicants
· Deliver departmental induction and reviews for new starters
· Identify training needs
· Deliver on job technical training
· Ensure training courses are attended and follow up on training and development activity
· Set objectives and conduct performance reviews
· Conduct exit interviews with leavers
Communication
· Participate in regular team meetings to review product and store performance and agree team priorities and any changes to plans
· Ensure effective communication to all levels both internally and externally
· Provide regular briefings to all team members on business priorities and progress, and other corporate events
Team work
· Deputise for Director of Merchandising as required
· Build an effective and motivational team environment
· Support training and development activities, ensuring all performance assessments are completed to enable individuals to achieve business and personal development goals
TECHNICAL SKILLS AND EXPERIENCE REQUIRED
• A minimum of 2 years spent as an Assistant Merchandiser
• Experience of Merchandising private Label/Brands or Concessions (As appropriate)
• Experienced in Range Planning
• Experienced in forecasting & managing OTB
• Excellent PC skills
• Good organisational skills and ability to work to deadlines
• Good interpersonal skills
• Experience in motivating and managing a team
OTHER DUTIES
§ Participate in projects or carry out any other duties that may be outside the standard remit that will benefit the company