At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead product strategy and merchandising to drive brand growth and commercial success.
- Company: Strathberry creates unique luxury pieces, handcrafted in Spain with exceptional quality and design.
- Benefits: Enjoy a hybrid work model and be part of a dynamic, expanding luxury brand.
- Why this job: Join a prestigious brand with a global following and make a significant impact on product strategy.
- Qualifications: 8+ years in luxury merchandising, strong analytical skills, and proven leadership experience required.
- Other info: Position based in Edinburgh; applications close early if interest is high.
The predicted salary is between 48000 - 72000 £ per year.
ABOUT US
Proudly Scottish at heart, but with a keen international outlook, Strathberry creates unique luxury pieces, handcrafted in Spain using only the very finest quality leathers and finishes. Known for its instantly recognisable bar closure and minimalist design aesthetic, Strathberry’s elegant lines and exceptional attention to detail have led to a global following.
The brand is stocked in over 33 retailers worldwide, with flagship stores in London and Edinburgh. With investment in place to accelerate the next phase of expansion, there has never been a better time to join this dynamic business.
THE ROLE
As the Head of Merchandising, you will play a critical role in shaping our product strategy, ensuring alignment with market trends, customer demand, and brand positioning. You will lead the merchandising function, overseeing assortment planning, pricing strategy, stock management, and sales analysis to drive commercial success and brand growth.
Please note: This is a full-time, permanent position based in Edinburgh. We are currently operating a hybrid working approach with a minimum of 3 fixed days required each week working from our beautiful Townhouse in Edinburgh City Centre.
To apply please submit your CV along with a covering letter by Friday 14th March latest, outlining your relevant skills and experience and interest in this position. Please note that CVs submitted without a covering letter will not be considered. Candidates are encouraged not to delay their submission, as applications may close earlier than 14th March if sufficient interest is received.
KEY RESPONSIBILITIES
Product Strategy & Assortment Planning
- Define and execute the merchandising strategy in line with brand vision and business objectives.
- Work closely with design and production teams to develop compelling product assortments.
- Ensure a balanced product mix across categories, price points, and customer segments.
Sales & Performance Analysis
- Analyse sales data, market trends, and consumer insights to inform merchandising decisions.
- Optimise product lifecycle, identifying best-sellers and opportunities for new developments.
- Conduct regular performance reviews and present findings to key stakeholders.
Stock & Supply Chain Management
- Collaborate with Sourcing & Supply Chain and Operations teams to manage stock levels efficiently.
- Develop demand forecasts to prevent both overstock and out of stocks while maximising profitability.
- Lead markdown strategies and end-of-season planning to optimise margins.
Pricing & Margin Optimisation
- Develop pricing strategies to maintain a competitive yet premium positioning.
- Work with finance teams to ensure profitability and achieve margin targets.
Cross-Functional Collaboration
- Partner with marketing and e-commerce teams to align merchandising strategies with campaigns.
- Support online, wholesale and retail teams with product knowledge, training, and sales tools.
- Lead a merchandising team and foster a high-performance culture.
ABOUT YOU
To be a star candidate for this position, you must be able to demonstrate the following skills and experience:
- 8+ years of experience in luxury or premium fashion/accessories merchandising.
- Strong analytical and commercial acumen, with experience in sales analysis and stock management.
- Proven ability to drive product strategy and influence cross-functional teams.
- Deep understanding of luxury market dynamics and consumer behaviour.
- Strong leadership and team management skills.
- Excellent communication and presentation abilities.
- Proficiency in merchandising and sales analysis software, and development of brand/category WSSIs
INTERESTED?
To apply please submit your CV along with a covering letter by Friday 14th March latest, outlining your relevant skills and experience and interest in this position. Please note that CVs submitted without a covering letter will not be considered. Candidates are encouraged not to delay their submission, as applications may close earlier than 14th March if sufficient interest is received.
Head of Merchandising employer: Strathberry
Contact Detail:
Strathberry Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Head of Merchandising
✨Tip Number 1
Familiarize yourself with Strathberry's brand identity and product offerings. Understanding their unique luxury pieces and design aesthetic will help you articulate how your experience aligns with their vision during the interview.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare to discuss specific examples of how you've successfully managed merchandising strategies in the luxury fashion sector. Highlight your analytical skills by showcasing how you've used sales data to drive product decisions.
✨Tip Number 3
Network with professionals in the luxury fashion industry, especially those who have experience in merchandising. This can provide you with valuable insights and potentially lead to referrals that could strengthen your application.
✨Tip Number 4
Demonstrate your leadership capabilities by preparing to discuss how you've built and managed high-performing teams in previous roles. Be ready to share your approach to fostering collaboration across different departments.
We think you need these skills to ace Head of Merchandising
Some tips for your application 🫡
Understand the Brand: Before applying, take some time to understand Strathberry's brand identity, values, and product offerings. This will help you tailor your application to align with their vision.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Your cover letter should clearly outline your relevant skills and experience in luxury merchandising. Highlight specific achievements that demonstrate your ability to drive product strategy and influence teams.
Showcase Analytical Skills: Since the role requires strong analytical abilities, include examples of how you've successfully analyzed sales data or market trends in your previous positions. This will show your capability in making informed merchandising decisions.
Highlight Leadership Experience: As a Head of Merchandising, leadership is key. Make sure to emphasize your experience in leading teams and fostering a high-performance culture in your CV and cover letter.
How to prepare for a job interview at Strathberry
✨Showcase Your Experience
Make sure to highlight your 8+ years of experience in luxury or premium fashion merchandising. Prepare specific examples of how you've successfully driven product strategy and influenced cross-functional teams in your previous roles.
✨Demonstrate Analytical Skills
Be ready to discuss your analytical and commercial acumen. Bring examples of how you've used sales analysis and market trends to inform merchandising decisions, and be prepared to explain your approach to stock management.
✨Understand the Brand
Research Strathberry's brand vision and product offerings thoroughly. Be prepared to discuss how you can align the merchandising strategy with their unique luxury positioning and customer segments.
✨Prepare for Leadership Questions
As a Head of Merchandising, strong leadership skills are crucial. Think about your leadership style and prepare to share examples of how you've fostered a high-performance culture within your team.