Assistant Merchandiser - Beauty
Assistant Merchandiser - Beauty

Assistant Merchandiser - Beauty

London Full-Time 28800 - 43200 £ / year (est.) No home office possible
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At a Glance

  • Tasks: Support planning and trading in the beauty department through data analysis and reporting.
  • Company: Join Debenhams, a historic brand evolving into Britain's leading online department store.
  • Benefits: Enjoy a fast-paced environment with opportunities for growth and mentorship.
  • Why this job: Make a real impact in merchandising while working with a passionate team in a dynamic culture.
  • Qualifications: Experience in merchandising, strong analytical skills, and proficiency in Excel required.
  • Other info: Opportunity to mentor junior team members and influence commercial decisions.

The predicted salary is between 28800 - 43200 £ per year.

Overview

We’re looking for a commercially aware, detail-driven Assistant Merchandiser to join our dynamic team. You’ll play a key role in supporting the planning and trading of our beauty department, owning reporting, data analysis, and intake management while influencing commercial decisions with real impact. This is a fantastic opportunity to take your next step in Merchandising and grow in a fast-paced, high-performing environment.

About Debenhams

You know all about our high street roots and bricks and mortar stores. Now, we\\\’re looking to the future. Since 2021, we\\\’ve embraced some changes. Debenhams hasn’t made a comeback – we’ve been here since 1778, evolving and adapting to the times. This is Debenhams today – Britain’s Leading Online Department Store.

We are more than a department store – we are an institution. From creating the blueprint for designer collaborations with designers at Debenhams, to launching countless brands and inventing the beauty counter, we’ve consistently shaped the retail landscape.

We don’t underestimate the power of our brand or the place we hold in people’s hearts. This is only the beginning of the next chapter for Debenhams. Britain needs Debenhams… Debenhams needs you!

What You\’ll Be Doing

  • Planning & Forecasting: Maintain and analyse WSSI and KPIs to support forecasting and driving commercial actions. Track performance, monitor OTB, and contribute to monthly forecasts.
  • Critical Path & Trading: Support the team in trading in-season and maintaining the category critical path. Use data, past trends, and competitor analysis to drive decisions and actions.
  • Rebuy Management: Independently review product performance to identify rebuy opportunities, support intake strategy, and ensure availability of key and core lines.
  • Stock & Intake: Proactively manage stock levels and intake, supporting accurate order placement, phasing, and seasonal planning. Monitor supplier delivery schedules and adapt intake strategies accordingly.
  • Team Leadership: Support and guide junior team members, lead on MAA development, and deputise for the Junior Merchandiser/Merchandiser when needed.
  • Reporting & Analysis: Deliver accurate weekly trade reports, line cards, and ad-hoc analysis to support business decisions. Own the accuracy of attribution and data management across the department.

What We\’re Looking For

  • Experience working in a merchandising role, ideally within a fast-paced retail or fashion environment
  • Strong analytical skills with a commercial mindset and attention to detail
  • Confident using WSSI and forecasting tools, with solid Excel and data manipulation abilities
  • Clear communication skills, both written and verbal, with the ability to work cross-functionally
  • Organised and proactive, able to manage multiple priorities and deadlines
  • A team player who enjoys mentoring others and sharing best practices
  • Passionate about product, trends, and driving performance through smart decision-making

What To Expect From Here

  • If we believe you could be a great fit for the role, we’ll invite you for an informal conversation via phone or Microsoft Teams with our Talent Acquisition Manager.
  • If successful, you’ll then meet with one of our Senior Merchandisers at Debenhams House to discuss your experience in more detail and explore the value you can bring to the team.
  • Most of our hiring processes consist of two stages. You will meet with the Head of Merchandising to present a response to a brief – You may also be asked to meet with Senior Leadership.
  • We will conclude the process after this stage and provide feedback soon after your final meeting with a final decision.

Seniority level

  • Entry level

Employment type

  • Full-time

Job function

  • Marketing and Sales

Industries

  • Retail Apparel and Fashion and Technology, Information and Internet

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Assistant Merchandiser - Beauty employer: Debenhams

Debenhams is an exceptional employer, offering a vibrant work culture that fosters growth and innovation within the retail sector. As a leading online department store with a rich history, we provide our employees with unique opportunities to influence commercial decisions and develop their skills in a fast-paced environment. Join us to be part of a team that values collaboration, creativity, and the passion for beauty, all while enjoying the benefits of working for a well-established brand that is evolving for the future.
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Contact Detail:

Debenhams Recruiting Team

StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫

We think this is how you could land Assistant Merchandiser - Beauty

✨Tip Number 1

Familiarise yourself with the latest trends in the beauty industry. Understanding current market dynamics and consumer preferences will help you engage in meaningful conversations during interviews and demonstrate your passion for the role.

✨Tip Number 2

Brush up on your analytical skills, especially with tools like WSSI and Excel. Being able to showcase your proficiency in data analysis during discussions will set you apart as a candidate who can contribute effectively to the team.

✨Tip Number 3

Prepare to discuss your previous merchandising experiences in detail. Think of specific examples where you've successfully managed stock levels or influenced commercial decisions, as this will highlight your relevant skills and experience.

✨Tip Number 4

Network with professionals in the retail and merchandising sectors. Engaging with others in the industry can provide valuable insights and potentially lead to referrals, increasing your chances of landing an interview with us.

We think you need these skills to ace Assistant Merchandiser - Beauty

Analytical Skills
Attention to Detail
Commercial Awareness
Data Analysis
Excel Proficiency
WSSI Knowledge
Forecasting Skills
Stock Management
Intake Management
Communication Skills
Team Leadership
Organisational Skills
Proactive Approach
Mentoring Skills

Some tips for your application 🫡

Understand the Role: Read the job description thoroughly to understand the key responsibilities and skills required for the Assistant Merchandiser position. Tailor your application to highlight relevant experience in merchandising, data analysis, and stock management.

Highlight Analytical Skills: Emphasise your strong analytical skills and experience with tools like WSSI and Excel. Provide specific examples of how you've used data to influence commercial decisions or improve performance in previous roles.

Showcase Teamwork and Leadership: Mention any experience you have in mentoring or guiding junior team members. Highlight your ability to work cross-functionally and support team dynamics, as this is important for the role.

Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Write a cover letter that reflects your passion for the beauty industry and your understanding of current trends. Use this opportunity to explain why you want to work at Debenhams and how you can contribute to their success.

How to prepare for a job interview at Debenhams

✨Showcase Your Analytical Skills

As an Assistant Merchandiser, strong analytical skills are crucial. Be prepared to discuss your experience with data analysis and forecasting tools like WSSI. Bring examples of how you've used data to influence commercial decisions in previous roles.

✨Demonstrate Your Commercial Awareness

Understanding the retail landscape is key for this role. Research Debenhams' current market position and recent changes. Be ready to discuss how you can contribute to their growth and adapt to the evolving beauty sector.

✨Prepare for Scenario-Based Questions

Expect questions that assess your problem-solving abilities. Think of scenarios where you've had to manage stock levels or make quick decisions based on performance data. Use the STAR method (Situation, Task, Action, Result) to structure your responses.

✨Highlight Your Team Leadership Experience

Since the role involves supporting and guiding junior team members, share examples of your leadership experience. Discuss how you've mentored others and contributed to a positive team environment, showcasing your ability to work cross-functionally.

Assistant Merchandiser - Beauty
Debenhams

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