Merchandiser – fixed term contract

My client, a well known retailer based in the heart of London, have a unique opportunity for a merchandiser with experience of wine, to join their business throughout a critical trading period, on a 6 month contract. Depending on the success of the objectives of this role there is every chance the appointment could be extended beyond 6 months.

KEY OBJECTIVES FOR THE WINE DEPARTMENT

• With Buying team, delivering a comprehensive range suitable for all channels that is structured to give a clear Good-Better-Best experience to our customers.
• Mapping out the B&M processes to ensure accurate data is instigated and maintained.
• Delivering a clear critical path for “… of the month” and other key, category promotions, ensuring all parties are clear of their timelines.
• Continue to work with other departments to ensure that product selection changes are planned and forecasted, leading to no gaps in supply.
• Working with Senior Merchandiser and IT team to deliver automated PO generation on Wines and Spirits.

GENERAL RESPONSIBILITIES / ACCOUNTABILITIES

• Production of statistical analysis of previous sales, brands, price points (etc.) to propose generic range architecture of future ranges
• Significant input into the range sign off process
• Check if the products proposed are commercially viable to range
• Formulation of sales forecasts using experience, historic data and product spec’s
• MOQ and Minimum Order Value to be checked if commercially viable
• Intake plans to be created from the signed off sales forecasts
• Place all orders for respective departments
• Expediting Orders
• Develop relationships with Suppliers / Depot / Shop Floor / On Line team
• Complete understanding of Grade A and B lines (in terms of stock, orders, issues, pricing, promos etc)
• Regular checking of Grade C and D lines
• Compile and communicate proposed sale lines
• Monitor and suggest appropriate action during sale
• Drive OTIF (On time and in full deliveries)
• Order Management – i.e. the orders on the system reflect exactly what stock is due and when
• Communication of failed deliveries and actions proposed
• Ensure unwanted orders and inventory are cancelled with full communicated to suppliers and buyers
• Raise Supplier Compliance Charges
• Compile statistical data regarding volume of Supplier Compliance Charges
• Allocation parameters set on the system
• Maintain availability within defined parameters – highlight future potential issues. Resolve before they become issues
• Maintain and report against KPIs (e.g. stock holding, weeks cover, availability, sales forecast accuracy)
• Stock queries from Ely resolved within 48 hours
• Prepare data for regular reviews with buying, shop floor and VM
• Management of Assistant Merchandiser and ensuring they are developing and meeting their KPIs.

KEY CHALLENGES THAT JOB HOLDER NEEDS TO BE ABLE TO ADDRESS

• Failed deliveries
• Exceeding the OTB
• Poor availability
• Excessive proposed ranges
• Inaccurate sales forecasts
• Managing Buyers expectations
• Highlighting and proposing actions for non / slow selling lines
• Maintaining all KPIs
• Prioritising work loads

WHAT DOES SUCCESS LOOK LIKE IN THIS ROLE?

• Excellent knowledge of Grade A and B products
• Good relationships with respective buyer
• Good relationships with Key Stake Holders
• Can cover for Senior Merchandiser
• Excellent knowledge of systems
• Achieving all KPIs
• Good statistical analysis conducted across all SKUs / departments responsible for
• Clear concise conclusions drawn from analysis
• Proposal of future strategy supported by clear facts and logic
• Clear processes and procedures, understood by stake holders.

SKILLS AND EXPERIENCE REQUIRED TO SUCCEED IN ROLE

Candidates should currently be retail merchandisers with specific category experience of wine.

They should possess strong analytical skills, highly organised, good communication skills at varying levels, able to multi-task, prioritise accordingly with leadership and coaching as required

To apply please email your cv to David Seamons