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- Tasks: Lead trading performance and manage stock flows in global cruise retail.
- Company: Join Harding+, the world's only dedicated cruise retailer.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, annual bonus, pension, healthcare, and 26 days leave.
- Why this job: Make a global impact in a unique retail environment while developing your skills.
- Qualifications: Experience in merchandising or strong assistant role with analytical skills.
- Other info: Supportive team culture with opportunities for growth and international exposure.
The predicted salary is between 36000 - 60000 £ per year.
Location: Avonmouth, Bristol (Hybrid - 2 days in office, typically Tuesday and Wednesday).
Contract: 12-Month Fixed Term (Maternity Cover)
Start Date: 1 June 2026
Salary: Competitive + bonus + benefits
Responsibilities
- Lead Trading and Commercial Performance in Global Cruise Retail. Shape retail performance across a global cruise business, managing stock flows, seasonal trading cycles and supplier relationships with precision, pace and strong commercial judgement.
- Own the Plan. Own category WSSI and Open to Buy, ensure performance aligns with budget, margin targets and growth plans. Lead weekly and seasonal trade reviews, identify risks early and respond to protect availability, margin and profitability.
- Forecasting and Stock Management. Direct forecasting and intake decisions to influence sales across the global fleet. Manage stock arrival timing, replenishment around ship deployment and peak trading windows, and balance investment against exposure.
- Cross-functional Collaboration. Work with Buying, Assistant Merchandisers, Operations, Warehouse teams and vendors to ensure stock flow supports commercial ambition and operational reality.
- Commercial Ownership. Challenge option counts, influence phasing decisions, use data to shape buying strategy, interpret and act on numbers rather than only reporting them.
Leadership and People
- Lead Conversations and Develop Others. Contribute to supplier planning discussions and joint business reviews. Provide clarity and direction to Assistant Merchandisers and Merchandising Assistants, supporting development while maintaining trading discipline. Influence will be visible with global impact.
About You
- You are an experienced Merchandiser, or a strong Senior Assistant Merchandiser ready to step up, with demonstrable experience owning WSSI and OTB at category level.
- You are comfortable leading trade reviews, managing stock risk, and making commercially sound decisions in fast-paced retail environments. You balance analytical rigour with practical judgment.
- You are confident influencing Buying teams and presenting clear recommendations backed by data. You take ownership and accountability for performance.
- Experience in fashion, lifestyle or own-brand retail environments will be advantageous.
- Exposure to complex supply chains or highly seasonal trading environments will be particularly valuable.
What You Will Gain
- You will join a supportive and ambitious global retail business headquartered in Avonmouth, Bristol.
- We offer: Annual bonus scheme. Company pension. Healthcare provision. 26 days annual leave plus bank holidays, with the option to purchase an additional five days.
- Exposure to international retail operations and global trading performance.
- The opportunity to lead category-level commercial decisions within a unique retail model.
About Harding+
Harding+ is the world’s only dedicated cruise retailer, partnering with leading global cruise lines and operating retail shops across ships worldwide. With millions of transactions annually and a growing international footprint, we continue to shape the future of onboard retail.
We are committed to building diverse teams and creating an environment where everyone feels welcome, supported, and able to thrive.
If you are ready to take ownership of trading performance and lead category planning in a truly global retail environment, we would love to hear from you. Apply now and help drive retail success worldwide.
Merchandiser in Bristol employer: Harding Retail
Contact Detail:
Harding Retail Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Merchandiser in Bristol
✨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 the company and its culture. Understand their products and how they operate in the cruise retail space. This will help you tailor your answers and show that you're genuinely interested in the role.
✨Tip Number 3
Practice your pitch! Be ready to explain how your experience aligns with the responsibilities of the Merchandiser role. Highlight your skills in stock management and commercial performance to make a strong impression.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets noticed. Plus, it shows you’re serious about joining our team and contributing to our global retail success.
We think you need these skills to ace Merchandiser in Bristol
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV reflects the skills and experiences that match the Merchandiser role. Highlight your experience with WSSI and OTB, and don’t forget to mention any relevant achievements in retail performance.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Your cover letter is your chance to shine! Use it to tell us why you’re the perfect fit for this role. Share specific examples of how you've influenced trading decisions or managed stock effectively in previous roles.
Show Off Your Analytical Skills: Since this role requires a balance of analytical rigour and practical judgement, make sure to include examples of how you've used data to drive decisions. We love seeing numbers in action!
Apply Through Our Website: We encourage you to apply directly through our website. It’s the best way for us to receive your application and ensures you’re considered for the role. Plus, it’s super easy!
How to prepare for a job interview at Harding Retail
✨Know Your Numbers
As a Merchandiser, you'll need to be comfortable with data. Brush up on your understanding of WSSI and OTB metrics before the interview. Be ready to discuss how you've used these tools in past roles to drive performance and make informed decisions.
✨Showcase Your Collaboration Skills
This role requires cross-functional collaboration, so think of examples where you've worked with buying teams, operations, or suppliers. Prepare to share specific instances where your influence led to positive outcomes, demonstrating your ability to work well with others.
✨Prepare for Trade Reviews
Since leading trade reviews is a key responsibility, practice discussing how you approach these meetings. Be ready to explain how you identify risks and opportunities, and how you use data to support your recommendations. This will show your analytical skills and commercial judgement.
✨Understand the Business Model
Familiarise yourself with Harding+ and their unique retail model within the cruise industry. Knowing their operations and challenges will help you tailor your answers and demonstrate your genuine interest in the company and its goals.