Summary The role is responsible for choosing product that will be sold in South Africa. With a given budget, the Merchandise Manager is tasked with picking products based on the demand and the trends in the industry. The incumbent is also required to work closely with the sales team to select a segmented range by category, by division and by gender for all accounts. Buying Strategy Attend seasonal sales meetings and other relevant travel requirements. Select from the pre-existing range, making intuitive selections that suit the SA customer, so optimums can be achieved. Must be a subject matter expert in terms of product features, specifications and categorisation. Establish shipment plan and identify consolidation opportunities for cost reduction based on OOR reconciliation Understand the current retail strategy and make recommendations in developing product strategies and range building in line with the business vision Maintain strong awareness of the commercial potential of product in the market from a price point of view and assist in developing appropriate pricing structures Assist Planner in identifying sales patterns for future seasons and place forecasts and orders for the SA market Operational Partnerships Manage the delivery of samples to Head Office as necessary maintaining responsibility for this inventory until signed over to the relevant merchant Work with marketing, sales and Planner to set up promotions to drive underperformers to clear stock. Conduct sell-ins promoting new, fresh product to Retail With the sales and marketing functions, manage the full GTM sales process. Review previous season merchandise with Planner to identify possible reasons for success or non-performance and note for future reference Ensure optimal samples are selected that are applicable to the South African market. Ensure that buy-plans are well detailed and clearly understood by team members and relevant stakeholders Meet range development deadlines in order to ensure supplier deadlines are met Manage Stock levels in line with orders Assist Retail Ops team in the opening of new Brand House stores with specific focus on stock planning Ensure along with Visual Merchandiser and Retail manager that product is displayed in all stores according to brand standards. Manage the reconciliation of OOR against purchase order identifying irregularities and highlighting this to the Planners Ensure accurate requested ship dates to ease cash flow pressures Reporting & Analytics Develop and continually evaluate all reports in order to monitor stock arrival in SA, sales, history, seasonal sales analysis, aged inventory etc. Report on inventory tracker and forecasting report Feedback market trend information to the brand team and suggest best merchandising practice to maximise turnover. Assist in the mapping and architecture of the IT system for order management, logistical support, buying, point of sale, order tracking and Bl tools etc. Develop and continually evaluate all reports in order to establish sales history, seasonal sales analysis, aged inventory & liquidation plans etc. Review relevant historical information and make recommendations to management for product segmentation in stores Build and manage a consumption tool to react early to plan across channels Experience & qualifications Relevant Degree (Bcom) or related Diploma in Retail Management/Planning/Supply Chain/Merchandise Management Drivers license essential Experience and understanding of import merchandising. A working knowledge of the latest Microsoft packages (Excel & PowerPoint knowledge is essential). In depth knowledge of brands in this market segment Have a high degree of decision-making ability and be service orientated. Be assertive and communicate at all levels. Be a team player. A proven solid track record in buying An interest in and knowledge of trends Excellent planning, organising and interpersonal skills 3-5 years experience in similar role/ management experience Min 3 years experience in retail buying Knowledge of ERP systems Perks & Benefits You get to work for a rapidly expanding distributor with aspirational brands Gym & Shower facilities Personal Trainer Yoga Pension Fund Medical aid with Gap cover Staff Allocation (R12 000 Retail Value per annum). Staff discount (50% off for you and your family across all the brands within the group) Healthy Lunch subsidy Company performance incentive scheme Long-service incentives Holistic Employee Wellness programme The group prides itself in its effort to drive continuous employee engagement activities to enable a connected culture. Should you not be contacted regarding this position within 3 weeks from the closing date, please regard your application as unsuccessful.