At a Glance
- Tasks: Manage and optimise product ranges for Baby and Childrenswear, using data analysis and collaboration.
- Company: Join an iconic brand with a strong focus on innovation and teamwork.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, hybrid working, and opportunities for personal growth.
- Other info: Dynamic team environment with excellent career progression opportunities.
- Why this job: Make a real impact in the children's fashion industry while developing your merchandising skills.
- Qualifications: Experience in category management, forecasting, and strong analytical skills required.
The predicted salary is between 34000 - 45000 £ per year.
About the role
Would you like to work for an iconic brand? Are you great at analysing data and building relationships? Do you have experience in end to end range planning? If so, this might be the perfect role for you! We are looking for a Junior Merchandiser to join the Baby/Kid's Own Brand Clothing & Accessories Team – this role requires owning and managing a Category, so proven experience is key. You will use your analytical and commercial skills to plan and optimise the best range for customers within your category. Under the guidance of the Category Lead, you will deliver agreed KPIs, including sales, profit, stock, SKUs, availability, margin and risk management. You will maximise opportunities as they arise and lead in‑season trading to potentialise the outcome for customers and your category. You will task‑manage Merchandising Assistant(s) relevant to your product category, ensuring they have clear guidelines to fulfil their role. You will analyse commercial inputs to develop, with the Buyer, the best range of products supported by an effective and comprehensive range planning and pricing architecture to deliver market‑leading assortments.
Salary – £34,000.00 – £51,100.00 is the full pay band. However, we are looking for candidates up to £45K, depending on experience.
Contract type – This is a Permanent role.
Working pattern/flexible working – The Partnership has adopted a hybrid working approach, meaning you can work a mixture between the office and home based on your personal needs while balancing the needs of the business. The Merchandising team works 3 days a week in the office.
Location – This role is based at our Pimlico Head Office campus.
Key responsibilities
- You will be accountable for accurately planning and forecasting sales, stock, profit and SKUs for your category with the support of the L6 Merchandiser and Trade Planning team.
- You will be accountable for the commercial and customer success of a product range through range planning and agile in‑season trading, using analysis and reporting from Product Operations.
- Through the Merchandising Assistants, you will manage the flow of stock for your office, controlling inventory levels and open to buy.
- You are accountable for maximising availability across channels while minimising inventory holding costs and other supply chain costs.
- You will work at pace and with agility within a collaborative environment with your Merchandiser, Buyer, Head of Merchandising, Supply Chain, Trade Planning, sourcing, Trading Operations team, Design and Product Technology.
- Externally, you will hold a strong relationship with your supplier and Brands.
- With support from your L6 Merchandiser, you will be accountable for forecasting assortment sales, stock and margin KPIs, deciding open‑to‑buy parameters that meet commercial and customer targets.
- In collaboration with Buying, you will need to make seasonal trading and volume decisions along with commercial terms and product lifecycle with the suppliers.
- You will task‑manage relevant Merchandising Assistant partner(s) in your team.
Essential skills/experience you'll need
- Experience in Category Areas/Brands/Own Brands. This role requires owning and managing a Category, so proven experience is key for this role.
- Experience in Forecasting & Planning, WSSI management, influencing & stakeholder management.
- Experience in BTA preparation, margin modelling and flow planning.
- Ability to demonstrate experience in merchandising practices, including assortment planning and stock management.
- Strong Analytical and Numerical Skills.
- Advanced proficiency in Microsoft Excel or similar analytical tools.
- Proficiency in reporting tools such as Business Intelligence, Tableau.
- Communication and Presentation Skills.
- Understanding of Retail Operations and Supply Chain Management.
- Proactive Approach to Learning and Development.
Junior Merchandiser – Own Brand Baby and Childrenswear and Accessories in London employer: John Lewis & Partners
Join an iconic brand as a Junior Merchandiser in our Baby and Childrenswear team, where you will thrive in a collaborative and dynamic environment. With a hybrid working model that promotes work-life balance, we offer competitive salaries, opportunities for professional growth, and a culture that values innovation and teamwork. Our Pimlico Head Office is not just a workplace; it's a hub of creativity and support, ensuring you have the resources to excel in your role and make a meaningful impact.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Junior Merchandiser – Own Brand Baby and Childrenswear and Accessories in London
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to people in the industry, attend events, and connect on LinkedIn. Building relationships can open doors that a CV just can't.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for interviews by researching the company and its products. Show them you know their brand inside out and how your skills can help them achieve their goals.
✨Tip Number 3
Practice your analytical skills! Be ready to discuss how you've used data in past roles to make decisions. They’ll want to see your thought process in action.
✨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, we love seeing candidates who are proactive!
We think you need these skills to ace Junior Merchandiser – Own Brand Baby and Childrenswear and Accessories in London
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV:Make sure your CV is tailored to the Junior Merchandiser role. Highlight your experience in category management, forecasting, and any analytical skills you have. We want to see how your background aligns with what we're looking for!
Show Off Your Analytical Skills:Since this role requires strong analytical abilities, don’t shy away from showcasing your experience with data analysis tools like Excel or Tableau. Give us examples of how you've used these skills in past roles to drive results.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter:Your cover letter is your chance to shine! Use it to explain why you're passionate about the Baby and Childrenswear category and how your skills can help us achieve our KPIs. Make it personal and engaging!
Apply Through Our Website:We encourage you to apply through our website for a smoother application process. It’s the best way for us to receive your application and keep track of it. Plus, it shows you’re keen on joining our team!
How to prepare for a job interview at John Lewis & Partners
✨Know Your Numbers
As a Junior Merchandiser, you'll need to showcase your analytical skills. Brush up on key metrics like sales forecasts, stock levels, and margin KPIs. Be ready to discuss how you've used data in past roles to make informed decisions.
✨Showcase Your Category Knowledge
Familiarise yourself with the Baby and Childrenswear market. Research current trends, popular brands, and customer preferences. This will help you demonstrate your understanding of the category and how you can contribute to its success.
✨Prepare for Scenario Questions
Expect questions that assess your problem-solving abilities. Think of examples where you've had to manage stock levels or optimise product ranges. Use the STAR method (Situation, Task, Action, Result) to structure your answers effectively.
✨Build Rapport with Interviewers
Since relationship-building is key in this role, practice your communication skills. Be friendly and engaging during the interview. Show genuine interest in the team and the company, as this will reflect your ability to collaborate with others.
