Visual Display Merchandiser- North of England

The Visual Display Merchandiser (VDM) is responsible for delivering inspiring, brand-aligned visual merchandising in stores, with a focus on strong commercial execution and creative in-store displays and windows. Reporting into the Visual Display Merchandising Business Partner (VDMBP), the VDM plays a key role in implementing seasonal direction, window schemes and in-store installations to a high standard. This role does not partner directly with Area Managers and instead works under the guidance of the VDMBP to ensure consistent visual standards and impactful customer experiences.

Responsibilities

• Coaching & Training
  • Coach, inspire, and upskill retail store teams to deliver high standards in windows & mannequin dressing/styling with a clear commercial focus.
  • Support VDMBP to ensure basic visual merchandising principles are well understood and implemented clearly to drive consistency.
  • Support VDMBP to build collaborative relationships across Retail to help drive visual capability and overall performance.
• Visual Merchandising Execution
  • Deliver consistent visual merchandising standards across allocated stores, ensuring compliance with VM directives.
  • Tailor execution to individual store layouts while maintaining core brand integrity and message.
  • Use model stores and visual guidelines as a reference to ensure alignment with wider business expectations.
  • Support the VDMBP and store teams in creating visually commercial floor layouts and product zoning.
• Display & Creative (In-store Installations)
  • Execute eye-catching window schemes and in-store displays in line with brand guidelines and seasonal campaigns.
  • Support visual installations during store openings, refits, launches and promotional events.
  • Style mannequins and manage product presentation in a way that drives sales and brand identity.
• Commercial Impact
  • Maximise commercial opportunities through impactful visual merchandising execution.
  • Ensure key product stories are clearly communicated through displays and layouts.
  • React quickly to trade reports and sales feedback by adjusting visual merchandising strategies accordingly.
• Collaboration & Support
  • Work closely with the VDMBP and wider VM team to deliver consistent execution.
  • Support store managers and retail teams in bringing visual strategies to life.
  • Share feedback and insights with VM leadership to continually evolve best practices.

Requirements

• Previous experience in a visual merchandising role within fashion retail.
• Strong styling skills and a good eye for detail.
• Ability to coach, motivate and influence store teams.
• Commercial awareness with the ability to balance creativity and business needs.
• Excellent organisational skills and the ability to manage multiple priorities.
• Flexible to travel across stores and work varying hours when required (e.g. store openings, refits).

Benefits

• Generous 50% staff discount to buy the latest products.
• Discounts, benefits, financial advice, wellbeing solutions and more through the Retail Trust.
• Company car.
• Support for varied family setups, including maternity, paternity, adoption and fertility treatment backed by the Retail Trust.
• Flexible working, plus extra paid days such as daytime Fridays and early finish Fridays.
• Give as you earn scheme, a dedicated ‘Giver Island’ day each year and matching funding.
• Up-skilling support through on-the-job training, qualifications and a succession plan.
• 23 days paid holiday, exclusive of Bank Holidays, with an option to purchase additional holiday twice a year.

EEO & Safeguarding

River Island is committed to the safeguarding of all employees irrespective of age or job role and to meeting the Prevent duty to stop extremism. We promote the belief in British values, including democracy, the rule of law, individual liberty and respect for diverse faiths and beliefs. The Island is a diverse community where all people feel they belong. We are committed to equality of opportunity and welcome applications from individuals of any age, gender, ethnicity, disability, sexual orientation, gender identity, socio-economic background, religion or belief. Flexible working requests will be considered for all roles unless operational requirements prevent otherwise.