At a Glance
- Tasks: Monitor sales, analyse trends, and develop merchandising strategies to maximise profitability.
- Company: Join a leading FTSE-100 retail company with a vibrant culture.
- Benefits: Enjoy discounts, bonuses, and access to health and wellbeing services.
- Why this job: Be part of a dynamic team driving innovative product strategies in a global market.
- Qualifications: Strong communication skills and technical merchandising expertise required.
- Other info: Opportunities for growth, training, and a supportive work environment.
The predicted salary is between 28800 - 43200 £ per year.
About the Role:
- Monitoring In-Season Performance and Trading Opportunities: Track sales performance, inventory levels, and markdowns throughout the season. Identify trends and patterns to make informed decisions and adjustments. Implement strategies to maximise profitability and minimise risk.
- Formulating Range Structure Proposals: Analyse market trends, consumer preferences, and sales data to identify opportunities as well as develop range structures that align with the target market. Present proposals outlining assortment plans, pricing strategies, and key product features.
- Presenting in Internal and External Meetings: Prepare visually engaging presentations that effectively communicate range proposals. Clearly articulate rationale behind proposals, incorporating data and insights. Address questions and concerns from stakeholders with confidence and clarity.
- Appraising Performance and Proposing Strategies: Evaluate previous season performance, departmental metrics, and supplier performance. Identify strengths, weaknesses, opportunities, and threats and propose strategies to address performance gaps and capitalise on opportunities.
- Maintaining Merchandise Systems: Ensure accuracy in merchandise systems by updating data regularly. Confirm supplier contracts and maintain correct sizing, forecasts, and inventory levels. Conduct regular audits to identify and resolve discrepancies. Responsible for preparing and communicating data and sales information to the brands.
- Controlling Spending: Review budgets regularly to monitor spending and identify opportunities for cost savings. Analyse spending patterns and implement strategies to optimise allocation of resources. Negotiate favourable terms with suppliers to achieve cost efficiencies.
- Guiding the Team and Managing Tasks: Provide clear direction and support to your assistant and trainees, setting expectations and goals. Delegate tasks effectively, providing guidance and feedback as needed. Monitor progress and provide coaching to help trainees and assistants develop skills and confidence.
About You:
- Great Communication Skills: Prepare clear and engaging presentations for internal meetings and partner discussions. Tailor your communication style to your audience, ensuring information is conveyed effectively and actively listen to feedback and respond thoughtfully to questions or concerns.
- Solid Technical Merchandising Skills: Utilise your technical expertise to analyse data, forecast sales, and plan inventory effectively. Ensure accuracy in merchandise systems and contract negotiations to support successful trading relationships. Stay updated on industry best practices and trends to enhance your merchandising capabilities.
- Energetic, Enthusiastic, and Self-Confident: Approach your role with energy and enthusiasm, inspiring others with your passion and positivity. Demonstrate confidence in your abilities and decisions, especially when presenting information or leading discussions.
- Open-Mindedness to New Ways of Working: Embrace innovation and creativity, actively seeking out new ideas and solutions to challenges. Be receptive to feedback and different perspectives, recognising that diverse viewpoints can lead to better outcomes. Encourage a culture of continuous improvement and experimentation within your team.
- Enjoyment of the Product/Trend Side of the Role: Immerse yourself in the world of products and trends, staying informed about the latest developments and innovations. Use your passion for products and trends to drive creative merchandising strategies and inspire your team. Actively seek out opportunities to collaborate with design teams and brand partners to bring innovative products to market.
About Us:
You know Next, but did you know we’re a FTSE-100 retail company employing over 35,000 people across the UK and Ireland? We’re the UK’s 2nd largest fashion retailer and for Kidswear we’re the market leader. At the last count we have over 500 stores, plus the Next Online and it’s now possible to buy online from over 70 countries around the world!
About the Team:
- 25% off most NEXT, MADE*, Lipsy*, Gap* and Victoria’s Secret* products (*when purchased through NEXT)
- Company performance based bonus
- Sharesave scheme
- On-site Nursery available; OFSTED outstanding in all areas
- 10% off most partner brands & up to 15% off Branded Beauty
- Early VIP access to sale stock
- Access to fantastic discounts at our Staff Shops
- Restaurants with great food at amazing prices
- Access a digital GP and other free health and wellbeing services
- Free on-site parking
- Financial Wellbeing - Save, track and enhance your financial wellbeing
- Apprenticeship - Grow and develop on the job whilst gaining a qualification
- Direct to Work - Discount online and instore, collect your items the next day for free from your place of work or local store
- Support Networks - Access to Network Groups to empower and celebrate each other
- Wellhub - Discounted flexible monthly gym memberships, with apps, PT sessions and more
We aim to support all candidates during the application process and are happy to provide workplace adjustments when necessary. Should you need support with your application due to a disability or long-term condition, feel free to get in touch with us by email headoffice_careers@next.co.uk (please include 'Workplace Adjustments' in the subject line), or call us on 0116 284 2486 and leave a voicemail.
Merchandiser - Home - 12 Months Fixed Term Contract employer: Chartered Institute of Procurement and Supply (CIPS)
Contact Detail:
Chartered Institute of Procurement and Supply (CIPS) Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Merchandiser - Home - 12 Months Fixed Term Contract
✨Tip Number 1
Get your networking game on! Reach out to people in the industry, attend events, and connect with potential colleagues on LinkedIn. You never know who might have the inside scoop on job openings or can put in a good word for you.
✨Tip Number 2
Practice makes perfect! Prepare for interviews by doing mock sessions with friends or family. Focus on articulating your thoughts clearly and confidently, especially when discussing your merchandising skills and strategies.
✨Tip Number 3
Show off your passion! When you get the chance to present your ideas, make sure to highlight your enthusiasm for products and trends. This will not only engage your audience but also demonstrate your genuine interest in the role.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to follow up! After interviews or meetings, send a quick thank-you note to express your appreciation. It’s a great way to keep yourself top of mind and show that you’re genuinely interested in the position.
We think you need these skills to ace Merchandiser - Home - 12 Months Fixed Term Contract
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Your Passion for Products: When you're writing your application, let your enthusiasm for products and trends shine through. We want to see how you immerse yourself in the latest developments and how that passion can drive creative merchandising strategies.
Tailor Your Communication Style: Make sure your written application reflects great communication skills. Tailor your language to match our vibe, and be clear and engaging. This is your chance to show us how you can articulate ideas effectively, just like you would in a presentation.
Highlight Your Technical Skills: Don’t forget to showcase your solid technical merchandising skills! Mention your experience with data analysis, forecasting sales, and maintaining merchandise systems. We’re looking for someone who can ensure accuracy and support successful trading relationships.
Be Open-Minded and Innovative: In your application, express your openness to new ways of working. We love candidates who embrace innovation and creativity. Share examples of how you've sought out new ideas or solutions to challenges in your previous roles.
How to prepare for a job interview at Chartered Institute of Procurement and Supply (CIPS)
✨Know Your Numbers
Before the interview, brush up on key metrics related to sales performance and inventory management. Be ready to discuss how you would track these numbers and make data-driven decisions to maximise profitability.
✨Craft Engaging Presentations
Prepare a mock presentation that outlines your range structure proposals. Use visuals to make your points clear and practice articulating your rationale confidently. This will showcase your communication skills and technical merchandising expertise.
✨Showcase Your Passion for Trends
Demonstrate your enthusiasm for products and market trends during the interview. Share examples of how you've stayed updated on industry developments and how this knowledge has influenced your merchandising strategies.
✨Be Ready to Discuss Team Dynamics
Think about how you would guide and support your team. Prepare examples of how you've effectively delegated tasks and provided feedback in the past. This will highlight your leadership skills and ability to foster a collaborative environment.