Assistant Merchandiser

Reporting to the Merchandiser, you'll support seasonal planning, day-to-day trading and stock management, with direct oversight of an MAA (Merchandise Administration Assistant): setting their targets, supporting their workload and helping them grow. This role has real weight in how the department performs. Accurate planning and stock management here shape everything downstream, from stock availability to sales. If you've already worked as a Senior MAA or Assistant Merchandiser, you'll recognise most of what's involved here and we'll help you build on it from day one.

Here at Smallworld Accessories, we design, supply and merchandise fashion accessories as a concession partner in over 1,500 stores nationwide, working with some of the UK's leading retailers. Our range covers everything from sunglasses and belts to jewellery and kids' accessories, brought to life in stores by our head office team in Lewes and field-based teams across the country. Flair, quality and attention to detail shape what we design, with market relevance built in from the start. A lot happens behind the scenes to take a range from concept to shelf: work that has real impact on the business. We care about our people and our products, in equal measure: ethically sourced materials are standard and colleagues get the time and support to grow, not just targets to hit.

WHAT YOU'LL BE DOING

• Supporting the Merchandiser with the day-to-day trading of the department using data analysis to propose actions.
• Support with weekly and monthly internal and external trade packs generating clear, concise trading commentary.
• Keep the WSSI updated and accurate supporting with sales re-forecasting, stock, intake and MDOwn allocations and stock replenishment decision making with support of Merchandiser ensuring we hit key KPIs including sell through, cover and availability.
• Work closely with the warehouse, buying and retail teams to ensure stock hits stores accurately and graphics, POS and planograms hit stores in good time.

WHAT YOU'LL NEED

• Experience as a Senior MAA or Assistant Merchandiser, ready to take on supervisory responsibility.
• Strong analytical skills, with the ability to interpret data and make clear recommendations.
• Confident, intermediate-to-advanced Excel skills, including VLOOKUP, pivot tables and similar formulas.
• Strong planning and organisational skills, with real attention to detail.
• A methodical, accurate approach, even when deadlines are tight.
• Strong communication skills and the confidence to stay calm and tactful under pressure.
• A good understanding of the industry and our competitors.
• The right to work in the UK, as we're unable to offer visa sponsorship for this role.
• The ability to work in our Lewes office; relocation assistance is not available.

WHY JOIN US

• Real progression: get hands-on with trade analysis and take a genuine role in developing the MAA, with full support as you grow into it.
• A seat at the table with Buying and Design, with direct exposure to how decisions are made at a senior level.
• See your decisions land on shelves nationwide, working with some of the biggest names in UK retail.
• A team that invests in real training and development, with colleagues who genuinely stick around.

BENEFITS

• Regular team events and activities organised by our social committee.
• An additional day of annual leave to celebrate your birthday, plus long-service recognition.
• Access to a confidential Employee Assistance Programme.
• A lifestyle and savings platform offering a range of employee discounts.

Smallworld Accessories is committed to equality, diversity and inclusion and welcomes applications from all backgrounds.