At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead multi-channel merchandise forecasting and stock management to drive profitability.
- Company: Join M&S, a leading retailer with a focus on innovation and customer satisfaction.
- Benefits: Enjoy 20% discount, competitive holidays, health benefits, and flexible working options.
- Other info: Opportunity for personal development and career growth in a supportive environment.
- Why this job: Be part of a dynamic team shaping the future of retail with exciting challenges.
- Qualifications: Experience in online merchandising and strong leadership skills required.
The predicted salary is between 50000 - 65000 £ per year.
Here are some of the benefits we offer that make working for M&S just that little bit more special:
- 20% colleague discount across all M&S products and many of our third party branded products for you and one member of your household.
- Competitive holiday entitlement with the potential to buy extra holiday days.
- Discretionary bonus schemes depending on your role and our business performance.
- Cover for twice your salary up to age 70 (double with our Pension Plan).
- Support through our Pension Savings Plan, Share Buy and Sharesave schemes.
- Discounts and offers to save on everyday costs and access to great health benefits.
- Bike/accessory hire with Cycle to Work and save on tax and national insurance.
- Buy the latest technology with interest‑free financing directly from your salary.
- Access to resources to support your wellbeing, including a free virtual GP service.
- Support your favourite charities by donating through your pay or volunteering for them.
- Industry‑leading maternity, paternity, adoption and neo‑nat policies, providing support and flexibility for you and your family.
As the Senior Merchandiser you will be accountable for delivering future focused multi‑channel merchandise forecasting, planning and stock management to deliver profitable return on our stock and ensure availability in line with customer needs. We are looking for digital minded merchandisers with gravitas who have extensive online experience. This is a great opportunity for someone with an entrepreneurial mindset, is excited by a new challenge with lots of opportunity and passionate about the M&S product!
Key accountabilities and measures:
- Determine and manage department weekly sales, profit, and stock target setting and re‑forecasting, in conjunction with Planning and Finance teams, delivering against market share ambitions set by Buyer and targets agreed with central planning team.
- Provide analysis and recommendations for in-season trading.
- Drive ongoing strategies to optimise performance of stock holding i.e. managing Greige (fabric), minimum order quantity negotiations.
- Produce supplier KPI reporting and provide input to supplier performance management decisions.
- Manage promotional and clearance markdown and deliver robust in-season and exit trading, including accountability for corrective action to deviations from sales and stock targets.
- Provide leadership and direction to the team, identify, and develop talent and build a high performing team.
Your skills and experience will include:
- Working to Senior Merchandiser in either an online or heavily ecommerce focussed business.
- In‑depth knowledge of the planning & trading complexities associated with multi‑channel retailing.
- In‑depth knowledge of the processes and systems required to support the setting and monitoring of forecasts, stock plans and budgets for sales and profit.
- Excellent communication and influencing skills and ability to build positive collaborative relationships.
- Ability to lead, coach and manage people to support personal development and drive success.
- A digital and global mindset that supports the growth of international and online.
Senior Merchandiser in London employer: MARKS&SPENCER
M&S is an exceptional employer that prioritises employee wellbeing and growth, offering a competitive benefits package including a generous colleague discount, flexible holiday options, and comprehensive health support. Our vibrant work culture fosters collaboration and innovation, making it an ideal environment for Senior Merchandisers who are passionate about driving performance and developing talent. With opportunities for personal development and a commitment to sustainability, M&S stands out as a rewarding place to build a meaningful career.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Senior Merchandiser in London
✨Get Your Retail Game On
Start by getting to know the local retail scene. Make a list of stores that align with your vibe and visit them. You'll be surprised at how many job openings come from chatting with staff or managers in-store. Plus, showing that you have a genuine interest in their brand can make you stand out when applying for that full-time role!
✨Join Retail Networks and Forums
Tap into retail-specific communities and forums, whether online or in-person. Platforms like Retail Week or local retail meetups can provide invaluable insights and connections. You never know who might drop a tip about an upcoming job at companies like MARKS&SPENCER, so don’t miss out on building those relationships!
✨Be Ready for Busy Season Opportunities
Keep your eyes peeled for seasonal hiring windows, especially in the run-up to major shopping periods. Retailers often look for full-time staff to carry through busy times and may even keep you on after the season. Stay proactive by regularly checking in with your favourite retailers about their hiring plans.
✨Show Off Your Customer Service Skills
Retail’s all about customer interactions, so make sure you showcase any relevant experience in your conversations and interviews. Share specific examples of your customer service skills and how they’ve led to positive outcomes. This is your moment to shine when applying to roles at places like MARKS&SPENCER!
We think you need these skills to ace Senior Merchandiser in London
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Off Your Customer Service Skills:In retail, customer service is key! Make sure your CV highlights any experience where you've dealt with customers, whether it’s resolving issues or enhancing the shopping experience. Use concrete examples to demonstrate your problem-solving skills and ability to handle difficult situations with ease.
Tailor Your CV for Retail:When applying for a full-time role like this one at MARKS&SPENCER, customise your CV to reflect retail-specific buzzwords. Include any relevant skills such as inventory management or visual merchandising, and if you have experience with POS systems, shout about it! This will show you’re serious about joining the retail team.
Craft a Genuine Cover Letter:Don’t just repeat your CV in your cover letter! Use it as a chance to explain why you're excited about the opportunity at MARKS&SPENCER and how your values align with their brand. Mention specific aspects of the company that resonate with you and let your enthusiasm shine through!
Highlight Your Adaptability:In retail, things can get busy and unpredictable, so demonstrate how adaptable and flexible you are. Share examples of times you've had to adjust your approach on the fly or take on new responsibilities. This will show MARKS&SPENCER that you’re ready to jump in and contribute right away!
How to prepare for a job interview at MARKS&SPENCER
✨Show Off Your Customer Service Skills
Retail is all about providing an exceptional customer experience, so be ready to discuss your past customer service stories. We should have examples on hand of how we've handled difficult situations or gone above and beyond to meet a customer's needs. These anecdotes will bring your application to life!
✨Familiarity with Point of Sale Systems
Many retail roles require us to work with Point of Sale (POS) systems, so it's a good idea to brush up on any relevant software you’ve used before. If you’re familiar with systems like Shopify or Square, don’t forget to mention this during the interview. Highlighting technical proficiency can set us apart from other candidates!
✨Understand Product Knowledge
Be prepared to discuss the products that the store sells and how we can contribute to their sales. Showing enthusiasm for the products and a willingness to learn can impress interviewers. We should research popular items or trends in the industry before the interview, so we can speak confidently about them.
✨Be Ready for Role-Playing Scenarios
Many retail interviews include role-playing scenarios where we might have to deal with a difficult customer or upsell a product. Practising these scenarios with a friend or family member can help us feel more comfortable. The key here is to showcase our problem-solving skills and ability to remain calm under pressure!
