At a Glance
- Tasks: Support the Ladies Knitwear team in managing the supply chain and ensuring timely product delivery.
- Company: Join Whispering Smith, a leading family-run fashion business since 1967.
- Benefits: Enjoy flexible hours, modern offices, and regular staff sample sales.
- Other info: Opportunity for growth with training provided and a supportive team.
- Why this job: Kickstart your fashion career with hands-on experience in a dynamic environment.
- Qualifications: 2 years of merchandising experience and a passion for fashion required.
The predicted salary is between 27000 - 33000 £ per year.
Full-time, permanent
Salary: Negotiable depending on experience
Based: Manchester City Centre
We are looking for a Merchandiser to join our growing Ladies Knitwear Team. This is an excellent opportunity for someone with a minimum of 2 years' merchandising experience who is looking to take the next step in their career within the Fashion Industry. Working alongside the Senior Merchandiser and Department Manager, you will support the day-to-day running of the Ladies Knitwear department, helping to manage the critical path from order placement through to delivery. Previous knitwear experience is desirable but not essential, as full product training will be provided.
About Whispering Smith: Whispering Smith is a family-run business that has been at the forefront of fashion since 1967. Today, we are one of the UK's largest creators, importers, wholesalers and distributors of fashion apparel, supplying many of the UK's leading high street retailers and global e-commerce brands. With an ever-growing portfolio of brands, we pride ourselves on delivering innovative, commercial fashion to customers worldwide.
The Role: Working exclusively within our Ladies Knitwear Team, you will support the merchandising function by ensuring the smooth running of the supply chain and helping to deliver products on time and to the highest standards.
Key Responsibilities:
- Support the management of the critical path from purchase order through to shipment.
- Liaise daily with Far East suppliers to monitor production and delivery schedules.
- Raise purchase orders and maintain accurate system information.
- Chase production samples, lab dips and approvals to ensure deadlines are met.
- Monitor delivery dates and highlight any potential delays to the Senior Merchandiser.
- Approve packing lists, check barcodes and assist with shipping approvals.
- Manage incoming samples, ensuring they are labelled, tracked and distributed efficiently.
- Assist with sales analysis, repeat buys and markdown recommendations.
- Prepare samples for customer meetings and photoshoots.
- Maintain showroom samples and product trackers.
- Work closely with the Buying, Design and QC teams to ensure products progress smoothly through the supply chain.
- Provide day-to-day support to the Senior Merchandiser and Department Manager.
About You:
- A minimum of 2 years' experience in a merchandising or assistant merchandising role within the fashion industry.
- Excellent organisational skills with strong attention to detail.
- Confident communicator with the ability to build relationships with suppliers and internal teams.
- Strong commercial awareness and a genuine interest in fashion.
- Good Excel and computer skills.
- Able to prioritise workload and work well in a fast-paced environment.
- Positive, proactive and eager to develop your merchandising career.
- Knowledge of knitwear is desirable but not essential.
Benefits:
- Flexible start and finish times.
- Modern offices in the heart of Deansgate, Manchester.
- Regular staff sample sales.
- Office-based role with one work-from-home day per week after one year's service.
- Holidays 4 weeks with 1 day for birthday and additional week buy back scheme.
Next Step: By clicking ‘apply’ you will be taken to our Applicant Tracking System, where you can see further details and complete your application.
Merchandiser - Ladies Knitwear in Manchester employer: Whispering Smith
Whispering Smith is an excellent employer, offering a unique opportunity for an experienced HR Business Partner / HR Manager to take full ownership of HR processes in a supportive and flexible environment. Located in the vibrant Deansgate area of Manchester, the company fosters a positive work culture that values independence and encourages professional growth, making it an ideal place for those seeking meaningful and rewarding employment.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Merchandiser - Ladies Knitwear in Manchester
✨Get Down to the Fashion Events
Dive headfirst into local fashion shows, trade fairs, and networking events. These are golden opportunities to meet industry pros and showcase your passion for the industry in person. Plus, it gives you the chance to chat about potential roles at places like Whispering Smith!
✨Join Fashion-Focused Communities
Become a part of online fashion communities on platforms like Instagram or Pinterest. Participate in discussions and share your insights on trends or your personal style journey. It’s a great way to get noticed by brands looking to fill positions, including Whispering Smith.
✨Craft a Rock-Solid Portfolio
Since you're aiming for a full-time gig, your portfolio should reflect not just your best work but also your personality. Whether it’s lookbooks, design sketches, or styling projects, make sure it screams 'you' and includes a bit about why you’d be a perfect fit for Whispering Smith.
✨Leverage Your University Connections
If you’re fresh out of university, don’t underestimate your career services. They often have partnerships with fashion companies for internships and entry-level roles. Use this to your advantage and connect with them to find any openings at Whispering Smith!
We think you need these skills to ace Merchandiser - Ladies Knitwear in Manchester
Some tips for your application 🫡
Showcase Your Style:In the fashion-apparel industry, your personal style and understanding of current trends are crucial. Make sure your CV and cover letter reflect your unique fashion sense – use visuals if you can and highlight any fashion-related experiences or projects that show off your flair!
Highlight Relevant Experience:When you're applying for a full-time role, be sure to focus on any past roles or internships in fashion that’ve honed your skills. Whether that's working in retail, fashion design, or marketing, quantify your achievements and show how they relate to the role at Whispering Smith.
Include a Strong Portfolio:An impressive portfolio is key in fashion! Make sure to include a link to your online portfolio in your CV, showcasing your best work, be it designs, campaigns, or styling projects. This is your chance to let your creativity shine and demonstrate your abilities to Whispering Smith!
Craft a Standout Cover Letter:Use your cover letter to weave in your passion for fashion and the specific reasons you want to work at Whispering Smith. Share your vision of how you'd contribute to their brand and why you're excited about their work. Tailoring this will make you stand out from the crowd!
How to prepare for a job interview at Whispering Smith
✨Showcase Your Style Portfolio
For a role in the fashion-apparel industry, having a well-curated portfolio is essential. Ensure you include your best work that reflects your style and creativity, whether it's sketches, lookbooks, or completed designs. Be ready to discuss your design process and the inspirations behind your pieces!
✨Know the Latest Trends and Brands
Being well-versed in current fashion trends and influential brands can give you a leg up in the interview. Get familiar with what’s trending in the market and know your competitors. This shows your passion for the industry and helps you connect your work experience to current fashion trajectories.
✨Demonstrate Your Collaboration Skills
In a full-time fashion role, collaboration is key, whether you’re working with designers, marketers, or suppliers. Be prepared to share experiences where you successfully worked as part of a team or navigated challenges with colleagues. This will highlight your ability to adapt and thrive in a fast-paced environment.
✨Dress the Part
This might sound obvious, but in fashion, how you present yourself is part of your brand. Wear something that represents your personal style while still aligning with the company’s aesthetic. It’s a great way to show you understand the industry's essence and can embody the brand’s image!
