Merchandiser - Womenswear

Main Responsibilities

• Take ownership of the financial performance of designated product categories, managing sales, margin, stock levels, intake and profitability.
• Develop and maintain accurate category plans, budgets and forecasts, identifying potential risks and commercial opportunities.
• Manage Open to Buy (OTB), ensuring the right balance between stock availability, sales performance, margin and cash flow.
• Analyse weekly and monthly trading performance, providing clear commercial insights and recommendations to maximise sales and profitability.
• Lead weekly trading meetings, presenting category performance, key priorities and commercial recommendations to senior stakeholders.
• Lead seasonal range planning alongside Buying and Design teams, ensuring product assortments are commercially balanced.
• Review historical performance, competitor activity and market trends to influence future buying and merchandising strategies.
• Manage option planning, product estimates, allocations and distribution strategies to optimise stock performance.
• Monitor in-season stock levels and forecasts, taking proactive action to maximise sell-through and minimise terminal stock.
• Work closely with suppliers to manage production planning, forecasting, delivery schedules and stock availability.
• Manage, mentor and develop Assistant and Trainee Merchandisers.
• Support wider business initiatives, including sustainability objectives, new product opportunities and continuous improvements to merchandising processes.

Person Specification

• Proven experience working as a Merchandiser within a fashion, lifestyle or retail environment.
• A collaborative and positive team player with a genuine passion for product.
• An interest in responsible sourcing and sustainability, with an understanding of their importance within the fashion industry.
• Confident managing Open to Buy (OTB), category budgets, margins, markdowns and stock intake.
• Highly analytical with the ability to interpret complex data and translate findings into clear commercial actions.
• Excellent organisational skills with the ability to manage multiple priorities and work effectively to critical deadlines.
• Confident using merchandising systems, Excel and reporting tools to support financial and commercial decision-making.
• Strong communication and presentation skills, with the confidence to influence stakeholders at all levels.
• Previous experience managing, mentoring or developing junior team members.