At a Glance
- Tasks: Drive range building and trade planning while collaborating on merchandising strategies.
- Company: Join Finisterre, a purpose-led B Corp brand passionate about the ocean.
- Benefits: Enjoy 25 days holiday, product discounts, and opportunities for personal growth.
- Why this job: Be part of a unique brand making exceptional products responsibly.
- Qualifications: Experience in merchandising and strong analytical skills required.
- Other info: Dynamic work environment with a focus on sustainability and community.
The predicted salary is between 28800 - 43200 £ per year.
We are looking for an experienced Merchandiser to join Finisterre on a 12-month maternity cover contract. As a Merchandiser, you will be responsible for driving range building and trade planning activities across the requisite categories, collaborating closely to implement merchandising strategies while continuously reviewing and improving processes to drive efficiencies. You will ensure key KPIs are delivered as you support growth across all channels.
Born two decades ago from the needs of hardy British surfers, Finisterre creates enduring outdoor wear for an inspired life in and around the ocean. Proudly B Corp certified, we have committed to a deep belief: to make truly exceptional products in a more responsible and transparent way.
As we enter the next exciting stage of global growth, we are on the lookout for talented individuals to join our crew. So, if you are as passionate about the ocean as we are and if you want to be part of a truly authentic, purpose-led brand and you share our vision to create exceptional products in a responsible way, then we would love to hear from you.
KEY RESPONSIBILITIES- Range Planning
- Contribute to the development and implementation of the range strategy working collaboratively with the buying team to provide category financial framework of options to support the topline business growth.
- Creating seasonal forecasts bottom up with ROS and sell through for products in collaboration with the buying team with use of ranking and pareto to ensure forecasts are inline with sales plans, GM and FP sell thought targets.
- Ownership of category financials from option planning through to terminal stock management.
- Work cross functionally with buying, design, and product development to build seasonal ranges, providing feedback on product/styles/colour in season sales performance.
- Present category plans and buy proposals and provide insights from prior season performance to sign off with C suite.
- Demonstrate awareness of market trends and use this along with customer insights to inform range planning decisions.
- Work with VM team to align in store range with option plan delivering a cohesive and optimised range by store cluster.
- Work with buying to develop a flexible range that allows potential to trade OTB and stretch to budget where required.
- Produce, analyse and provide insights and actions for key trading meetings.
- Produce detailed analysis of sales performance against plan at a department and category level in conjunction with the buying team to identify risks and opportunities and propose actions.
- Accountable for category performance and working with commercial and marketing teams to trade through any under/over performances ensuring closing stock is managed to plan.
- Responsible for department WSSI, reforecasting forward sales against commitment, providing insights to Head of Merch to assist future budgeting and to provide weekly updates in WSSI meeting in terms of end of season terminal stock view.
- Manage category line cards for continuity styles to ensure excellent stock availability and agreeing any OTB with SLT in WSSI reviews.
- Work with MAA to exploit opportunities in individual store performance and range selection in future seasons.
- Build strong relationships with the retail team through regular store visits.
- Provide up to date information to the ecom and marketing teams to support trading on a weekly basis.
- Oversee launch fulfilment and availability targets with MAA to ensure strong product launches and ensure any changes communicated full to the wider team.
- Understand and control impact of price changes on department margin and report on this.
- Review, propose and implement mark-down activity to reduce terminal stock whilst analysing action taken on mark-downs to maximise profit.
- Pro-actively manage underperforming lines through marketing activity or use of last chance/outlets in season to reduce terminal stock risk.
- Provide accurate forecasting for the 3PL to help them plan resource efficiently and be the main point of contact with them for the Merchandising team.
- Coach, mentor and train team members to build knowledge, skills and expertise essential in their role for now and in the future.
- Be a role model and coach the team in behaviours which align with the company vision, strategy, and values.
- Keep a culture of open communication and feedback within the team and its direct contacts.
- Train the team in areas relating to diversity and inclusion, and maintain high standards of appropriate activity.
- Train the team in areas relating to social and environmental impact, and maintain high standards of appropriate activity.
- Carry out regular appraisals and one-to-one reviews, two-way feedback sessions agree and review targets and training plans, and support employees in achieving them.
- Relevant experience in a multi-channel retail business.
- Qualified or degree level or equivalent experience in a Merchandising role.
- A strong understanding of the key skills, deliverables and challenges of Merchandising, with evidence of delivering continuous improvement.
- Already working at Merchandiser level or Junior Merchandiser ready to step up.
- Ability to manage and develop a team, or proof of aspiration to do so.
- Full competent in the use of Excel, previous use of Netsuite an advantage.
- Numerical and analytically minded with strong attention to detail.
- Ability to prioritise and manage workload in a busy, dynamic environment.
- Passion, energy and aspiration in line with Finisterre values, products, brand and customers.
- Excellent self-awareness, communication and interpersonal skills.
- Thrives on positive change and able to manage self and others under pressure.
- We are offering a full time, fixed term contract for 12 months, based at our Headquarters at Wheal Kitty, St Agnes, Cornwall.
- We’ll invest in you with a competitive salary, depending on your skills and experience.
- 25 days holiday per year, plus up to 8 UK bank holidays (pro rata for part time employees).
- Additional holidays for length of service.
- Your birthday day off.
- Up to 3 days of paid volunteering – we will support you in giving back to communities and causes.
- A discretionary bonus scheme, based on company performance.
- A pension scheme with Nest.
- 60% product discount for personal and gift use.
- 30% Friends and Family product discount.
- Enhanced Family Leave policies to support you in growing your family.
- Life assurance with access to an online wellbeing platform which includes, an employee assistance program, virtual GP appointments, digital gym, and a range of perks.
- Access to a range of wellbeing resources, including counselling services, cycle to work, eye tests, and wellbeing activities.
- Regular company and team social events.
- Various discounts from our B Corp community.
- Access our online Learning Library and company-wide training sessions delivered by both internal and external trainers to support you in your ongoing development.
- An hour to spend in or by the sea every Tuesday followed by Sea Tuesday companywide meeting.
Closing date: 6th March 2026. We’ll be interviewing as we go along, so we’d encourage you to submit your application at the earliest opportunity, as the role may close earlier than advertised. Finisterre is committed to building diverse and inclusive teams. We celebrate difference and encourage everyone to join us and be themselves at work.
Merchandiser employer: Finisterre
Contact Detail:
Finisterre Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Merchandiser
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! 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
Prepare for interviews by researching Finisterre's values and products. Show your passion for the ocean and sustainability during your chat. We want to see that you’re not just a fit for the role, but also for our brand ethos!
✨Tip Number 3
Practice your pitch! Be ready to discuss your experience and how it aligns with the Merchandiser role. Highlight your analytical skills and ability to drive efficiencies – we love candidates who can back up their claims with examples.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets seen. Plus, it shows you’re genuinely interested in joining our crew at Finisterre.
We think you need these skills to ace Merchandiser
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV is tailored to the Merchandiser role. Highlight your relevant experience in range planning and trading, and don’t forget to showcase your analytical skills. We want to see how you can contribute to our growth!
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Your cover letter is your chance to shine! Share your passion for the ocean and how it aligns with Finisterre's values. Let us know why you're excited about this role and how your experience makes you the perfect fit.
Showcase Your Achievements: When detailing your past roles, focus on specific achievements that demonstrate your impact. Use numbers and examples to illustrate how you've driven efficiencies or improved processes in merchandising. We love seeing results!
Apply Through Our Website: We encourage you to apply directly through our website. It’s the best way to ensure your application gets into the right hands. Plus, it shows us you’re keen to be part of our unique crew at Finisterre!
How to prepare for a job interview at Finisterre
✨Know Your Numbers
As a Merchandiser, you'll need to demonstrate your numerical prowess. Brush up on key metrics like sales performance, stock levels, and forecasting techniques. Be ready to discuss how you've used data to drive decisions in previous roles.
✨Showcase Your Collaboration Skills
This role involves working closely with various teams, so highlight your experience in cross-functional collaboration. Prepare examples of how you've successfully partnered with buying, design, or marketing teams to achieve common goals.
✨Stay Ahead of Market Trends
Finisterre values awareness of market trends, so do your homework! Research current trends in outdoor wear and be prepared to discuss how these insights could inform range planning and merchandising strategies.
✨Demonstrate Your Passion for Sustainability
As a B Corp certified brand, Finisterre is committed to sustainability. Share your thoughts on responsible merchandising practices and how you can contribute to the company's mission of creating exceptional products in a more responsible way.