At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead merchandising strategies for top fashion brands on flexible, project-based assignments.
- Company: Join a boutique consultancy known for its expertise in fashion and luxury sectors.
- Benefits: Flexible engagements, networking opportunities, and the chance to shape industry trends.
- Other info: Engage with a network of senior leaders and explore diverse projects.
- Why this job: Utilise your merchandising expertise to make impactful decisions in dynamic environments.
- Qualifications: Proven experience at senior merchandising levels within fashion or retail.
The predicted salary is between 60000 - 80000 £ per year.
V&C Associates has been retained by clients within the fashion, luxury and retail sectors with live requirements for senior merchandising expertise on a fractional, interim and project basis. We are seeking accomplished Merchandise professionals for current assignments with established brands, scaling businesses, and investor-backed retailers, where senior merchandising judgement is required now. Engagements range from advisory input of a few days to interim leadership assignments of several months. These are substantive appointments for senior professionals with distinguished careers in merchandising leadership who wish to continue applying that experience through flexible, defined engagements rather than permanent employment. Candidates appointed to these assignments will additionally join V&C Associates' core network of senior merchandising leaders, through whom future mandates of this nature will be fulfilled.
Scope of Engagements
- Open-to-buy management — setting and controlling OTB by category; balancing commitment against forecast; identifying opportunity and managing stock risk in season
- WSSI development and management — building or professionalising the WSSI/MSSI; monthly reforecasting of sales, stock, intake and markdown; embedding it as the trading discipline of the business
- Trading — leading weekly trade reviews; directing repeat buys, markdown and promotional activity; tactical repositioning in response to performance
- Supplier negotiations — commercial terms, cost prices, lead times and rebates; supplier base restructuring; intake scheduling and delivery performance management
- Merchandise financial planning — seasonal budgets across sales, stock, intake, markdown and margin; category strategy and KPI frameworks
- Range and assortment planning — range width and depth architecture, option planning and phasing across channels
- Stock management — stock turn, cover, availability, terminal stock and clearance strategy; replenishment models for continuity lines
- Margin delivery — intake margin improvement, markdown efficiency and contribution performance
- Capability development — mentoring merchandising teams, establishing ways of working, and supporting planning-system selection and implementation
- Broader commercial projects including turnarounds, wholesale-to-DTC transitions, international expansion and new category launches
Candidate Profile
- A distinguished track record at Merchandise Director, Head of Merchandising or Merchandising Controller level within fashion, apparel, footwear, accessories, beauty or adjacent retail
- Comprehensive, hands-on command of WSSI and open-to-buy disciplines
- Proven commercial authority working alongside buying, finance and executive leadership
- Experience across multiple business models — for example high street, premium or luxury, pure-play e-commerce and wholesale — is advantageous
- Availability for fractional, interim or project-based engagements
- Based in the United Kingdom
About V&C Associates
V&C Associates is a boutique executive search consultancy founded in 2013, specialising in the fashion, luxury, beauty, lifestyle, travel and hospitality sectors.
Merchandise Director -Fractional/Project in Slough employer: V&C
V&C is an exceptional employer that values innovation and teamwork within the dynamic denim industry. With a strong focus on employee development, we offer numerous growth opportunities and a supportive work culture that encourages collaboration and creativity. Located in the UK, our team enjoys a vibrant work environment that fosters strong relationships and allows for impactful contributions to the brand's success.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Merchandise Director -Fractional/Project in Slough
✨Put Your Work on Display
As a freelancer in the fashion-apparel sector, your portfolio is your best friend. Make sure to create an eye-catching online presence—think stylish website or Instagram page showcasing your designs. This is where your creativity can shine and attract potential clients like V&C!
✨Join Fashion Communities
Get involved in fashion communities, both online and offline. Websites like Behance or DeviantArt are great for showcasing your work, while attending local fashion events or trade shows can help you network with brands and potential clients, opening doors for freelance gigs.
✨Leverage Social Media Marketing
As a freelancer, social media is your marketing engine. Start sharing your creations on platforms like Instagram and TikTok with relevant hashtags to build visibility in the fashion scene. Engage with other creators and brands to boost your discoverability—who knows, V&C might just stumble upon your work!
✨Pitch Directly to Brands
Don’t wait for opportunities to come to you; be proactive! Research brands you love, like V&C, and reach out with tailored pitches and links to your portfolio. Show them how your unique style can add value to their brand, and you could land some exciting freelance opportunities.
We think you need these skills to ace Merchandise Director -Fractional/Project in Slough
Some tips for your application 🫡
Showcase Your Style with a Portfolio:As a freelance fashion-apparel professional, your portfolio is your best friend! Make sure to include a diverse range of your work that reflects your unique style and versatility. Whether it's sketches, completed outfits, or even photoshoots you've styled, these visuals speak volumes about your capabilities.
Tailor Your CV to Fashion Trends:When crafting your CV, highlight any relevant experience in the fashion industry. List your design skills, any fashion shows you’ve participated in, and collaborations with other creatives. Don’t forget to mention current trends you’re familiar with – this shows you’re in tune with what’s happening in the industry!
Specify Your Rates and Availability:Since this is a freelance gig, be upfront about your rates and availability in your application. It helps V&C to understand if you’re a good fit for their budget and timeline. A clear mention not only shows professionalism but also sets the right expectations from the get-go.
Express Your Passion for Fashion:In your cover letter, let your passion for fashion shine through! Share why you’re excited about the opportunity with V&C and how your freelance work can bring something fresh and innovative. This personal touch can make a big difference and help you stand out among other applicants.
How to prepare for a job interview at V&C
✨Show Off Your Portfolio
As a freelancer in fashion-apparel, your portfolio is your best friend. Bring along a well-curated selection of your best designs, sketches, and final products. Be prepared to explain your creative process and the inspiration behind your work—this is where you can really shine!
✨Know Your Fabrics and Trends
Brush up on the latest trends and fabric technologies relevant to your niche in fashion-apparel. Be ready to discuss how you select materials and create pieces that not only look good but also fit current market trends. It shows you’re passionate and informed, which clients love!
✨Pitch Your Unique Style
Freelancing means you’re essentially pitching yourself and your unique style. Prepare a concise elevator pitch about what makes you different as a designer. Highlight your skills, style influences, and how you can address the specific needs of V&C. The more genuine and enthusiastic you are, the better!
✨Be Ready for Collaboration Questions
Freelancers often need to work closely with clients and other creatives. Expect questions about how you handle feedback, work with teams, or adapt your designs based on client requests. Think of examples from your past experiences where you successfully collaborated or adapted to feedback!
