At a Glance
- Tasks: Support planning and trading while analysing data to drive commercial decisions.
- Company: Join the innovative Debenhams Group, transforming retail with a dynamic team.
- Benefits: Enjoy competitive bonuses, gym access, discounts, and a comprehensive wellbeing package.
- Other info: Embrace change and innovation in a supportive, dog-friendly workplace.
- Why this job: Make a real impact in a fast-paced environment and grow your merchandising career.
- Qualifications: Experience in merchandising, strong analytical skills, and a passion for trends.
The predicted salary is between 30000 - 40000 £ per year.
At Debenhams Group, we are on a journey of transformation, revitalising our brand, culture, and connection with colleagues and customers alike. In a fast-changing retail environment, effective and authentic communication is vital to building trust, aligning our teams, and amplifying the impact of our work across internal and external audiences. 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 your 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. This role will be based out of our central Manchester office.
Key Responsibilities:
- Planning & Forecasting: Maintain and analyse WSSI and KPIs to support in 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.
Your Skills, Knowledge and Experience:
- 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.
Working with Us:
At Debenhams Group we thrive on change, innovation, and pace. Every challenge is an opportunity, and every day is a chance to push boundaries. If you're someone who embraces the unknown, thrives in a fast-moving, high-growth environment, and is ready to shape the future of retail, you'll love it here. We want visionaries, disruptors, and doers - people who bring fresh thinking, relentless energy, and the drive to make an impact.
Why Join Us:
Our mission is to create a workplace where everyone is respected, individual differences are valued, and people can be themselves at work - without exception. 2025 was a year of significant change for the Group. 2026 is about bold moves, real results and unstoppable momentum. If that excites you, you belong at Debenhams Group.
Benefits:
- Highly competitive bonus scheme, company pension, share schemes, private medical cover and life assurance.
- Access to an on-site gym and free weekly Pilates, yoga and fitness classes.
- 20% discount across all brands.
- Comprehensive wellbeing package.
- Dog-friendly offices (in selected locations).
- Ongoing learning and development with strong internal progression.
- On-site canteen serving breakfast, lunch, snacks and hot drinks.
- Free season ticket loan.
Assistant Merchandiser employer: Job Search Place Limited
At Debenhams Group, we pride ourselves on fostering a vibrant and inclusive work culture that champions innovation and personal growth. As an Assistant Merchandiser in our central Manchester office, you'll benefit from a highly competitive bonus scheme, access to wellness initiatives, and ongoing development opportunities, all while being part of a dynamic team that values your contributions and encourages you to thrive in a fast-paced retail environment.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Assistant Merchandiser
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to people in the industry, attend events, and connect with current employees at Debenhams Group. A friendly chat can sometimes lead to opportunities that aren’t even advertised!
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for your interview by researching Debenhams Group’s recent projects and initiatives. Show us you’re not just interested in the role but also in how you can contribute to our transformation journey.
✨Tip Number 3
Practice your data analysis skills! Since the Assistant Merchandiser role involves a lot of reporting and analysis, being able to discuss your experience with WSSI and KPIs confidently will set you apart from the crowd.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets seen by the right people. Plus, it shows you’re serious about joining our dynamic team.
We think you need these skills to ace Assistant Merchandiser
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your Application:Make sure to customise your CV and cover letter for the Assistant Merchandiser role. Highlight your merchandising experience, analytical skills, and any relevant tools you've used, like WSSI or Excel. We want to see how you can bring value to our team!
Show Your Passion:Let your enthusiasm for retail and merchandising shine through in your application. Share examples of how you've driven performance or made smart decisions in past roles. We love candidates who are passionate about products and trends!
Be Clear and Concise:When writing your application, keep it clear and to the point. Use bullet points where possible to make it easy for us to read. Remember, we’re looking for strong communication skills, so show us you can convey your thoughts effectively!
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 don’t miss out on any important updates. Plus, it shows you’re keen to join our team at Debenhams Group!
How to prepare for a job interview at Job Search Place Limited
✨Know Your Numbers
As an Assistant Merchandiser, you'll be dealing with data analysis and KPIs. Brush up on your understanding of WSSI and forecasting tools before the interview. Be ready to discuss how you've used these in past roles to drive commercial decisions.
✨Showcase Your Analytical Skills
Prepare examples that highlight your strong analytical skills. Think about times when you identified trends or made data-driven decisions that positively impacted your previous team or company. This will demonstrate your commercial mindset and attention to detail.
✨Communicate Clearly
Effective communication is key in this role. Practice articulating your thoughts clearly and concisely. You might be asked to explain complex data or decisions, so being able to communicate these effectively will set you apart from other candidates.
✨Be a Team Player
Debenhams Group values collaboration and mentorship. Prepare to discuss your experience working in teams and how you've supported or guided junior members. Highlight any instances where you shared best practices or contributed to a positive team environment.
