Merchandiser - Sourcing

Role Overview

Merchandiser - Sourcing at Apparel Group. This position supports product sourcing, vendor coordination, and merchandise planning to ensure optimal product availability, quality, and cost-efficiency across regions.

Role Purpose

Execute seasonal buying strategies, manage vendor relationships, and coordinate product development to ensure timely deliveries while maintaining brand and quality standards and achieving cost targets.

Key Responsibilities

Sourcing Strategy & Development

• Assist in developing seasonal sourcing strategies aligned with brand objectives, sales forecasts, and margin targets.
• Source and develop products through approved vendors and manufacturers across local and international markets to meet brand objectives.
• Stay up to date with market trends, fabric and raw material innovations, and manufacturing capabilities to recommend sourcing alternatives.

Vendor Management

• Manage vendor communications, including quotations, lead times, minimum order quantities, and compliance documentation.
• Negotiate costs, payment terms, delivery timelines, freight conditions, and sampling procedures with suppliers to achieve optimal margins.
• Conduct vendor assessments and assist in onboarding reliable suppliers aligned with quality, compliance, and ethical sourcing standards.
• Support post-season reviews with suppliers to evaluate performance, share feedback, and identify areas for development.

Product Development & Timeline Management

• Monitor product development progress and critical path to ensure timely approvals, production, and delivery as per calendar timelines.
• Coordinate with quality control and logistics teams to ensure product integrity, regulatory compliance, and smooth inbound shipments.

Performance Analysis & Continuous Improvement

• Analyze sourcing performance by reviewing product costing, order fulfillment rates, and supplier scorecards to support continuous improvement.
• Assist in seasonal markdown planning, inventory analysis, and order re-negotiations based on sales performance and market dynamics.

Documentation & Internal Coordination

• Track and maintain accurate sourcing documentation, POs, and cost sheets for auditing and performance review purposes.
• Liaise with internal departments including merchandising, logistics, marketing, and finance to ensure cohesive execution of sourcing plans.

Qualifications & Experience

• 2–5 years of experience in merchandising, sourcing, or buying within the retail industry.
• Bachelor's degree in Business, Fashion Merchandising, Supply Chain, or a related field.

Skills & Competencies

• Strong negotiation and vendor management skills.
• Analytical ability to interpret data and market trends.
• Proficiency in MS Excel.
• Proficiency in sourcing tools and ERP systems.