Merchandiser - Accessories

Role Overview

Merchandiser - Accessories at Apparel Group. This position assists in planning product and assortment strategies that meet or exceed financial goals across a regional store network.

Role Purpose

Support the Brand Manager in coordinating all activities related to allocation and delivery of merchandise across stores, including pre-season financial planning, in-season forecasting, open-to-buy management, budgeting for new store openings, and ensuring balanced collection at store level with timely replenishments and inter-store transfers.

Key Responsibilities

Planning & Strategy

• Assist in developing merchandise plans for categories based on historical trends, sales performance, and future outlooks provided by the brand team.
• 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.
• Participate in seasonal markdown and sales planning in collaboration with the Category/Brand Manager.

Analysis & Monitoring

• 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.
• Monitor competitor brands' product lines, pricing, and category developments.
• 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.

Operations & Compliance

• Ensure compliance with stock ageing standards and maintain stock turns in line with company policy.
• Support margin negotiations, order placements, and stock distribution decisions.

Stakeholder Engagement

• Conduct regular market visits with the Brand Manager to assess store execution and gather competitor intelligence.
• Provide post-season feedback reports on product categories.

Qualifications & Experience

• 2–5 years of experience in retail merchandising or a similar role within the fashion or lifestyle industry.
• Bachelor's degree in Business, Retail Operations, Merchandising, or a related field is preferred.

Skills & Competencies

• Proficiency in inventory management systems, MS Excel, and PowerPoint.
• Strong understanding of product strategy, vendor coordination, range development, and trend analysis.