MERCHANDISE MANAGER

The Merchandise Manager will manage and implement strategies for all merchandise in their division. The Merchandise Manager will be responsible and accountable for developing and delivering successful and effective merchandise assortments, proactively managing and executing profitable promotional plans and regularly reporting results clearly and concisely to senior management on a daily and weekly basis. Responsibilities: Key Accountabilities: Develop and drive the product strategy, product mix, and financial performance goals for assigned area of responsibility Develop successful seasonal product line plans leveraging history, market knowledge, trend assessment, and financial risk and reward Lead merchandise assortment activities of an assigned division, coordinating internal design and production activities ensuring that the cross-functional team is working within seasonal cost and time requirements Regularly review and evaluate customer demand and sales trends to determine where to place products for sale and communicate financial results, forecasts, and action plans to management and cross-functional teams Develop and implement frequent promotional and pricing changes Develop and maintain effective relationships with cross-functional teams including Design, Global Sourcing, Planning & Allocation, and various other cross-functional teams to achieve seamless product-to-market process Manage team of merchandise associates at various levels Lead the activities of associates and set clear objectives and communicate regularly with valuable feedback and updates Demonstrate expertise in all phases of product development, including fabric, fit, wash, and embellishment, as well as cost negotiation and strategic sourcing Maintain a high awareness of the customer, competitive landscape, and fashion trends Create and communicate relevant and effective presentations for product performance reviews, trend and sales meetings, and frequently attend and participate in meetings with cross-functional partners (Merchandising, Design, Planning & Allocation, and Sourcing) Continuously monitor the development and performance of direct reports through regular meetings to discuss performance and development compared to goals; maintain a dialogue regarding their needs and concerns to aid in future development and increase retention Conduct regular market trips to collect seasonal trend and competitor data to share with management and the broader team Education and Experience: Bachelor’s degree in fashion merchandising, business, or related field 5-7 years of retail merchandising experience, with demonstrated expertise in product development, buying, and planning experience Skills and Behaviors: Product driven and knowledgeable about children’s apparel Exceptional coaching and mentoring skills Must have a well-defined eye for fashion, trend, pattern, color, and graphics Ability to thrive in a multi-tasked, fast-paced environment where product innovation is needed with frequently changing priorities Must be able to readily accept and adapt to change Ability to establish and maintain effective relationships with all levels of direct staff and with peers and management Must be confident and able to make decisions quickly and feel comfortable taking risks Demonstrated leadership skills, with experience in managing, training, and mentoring junior staff Comfortable building and delivering presentations to management, staff, and field audiences Excellent project management skills Ability to produce and present retail industry statistical and financial analysis Proven financial and analytical skills a must to drive overall strategy for these areas Must be detail orientated and have a hands on approach to the product and the business Proficient in Microsoft Office including ability to create presentations and prepare complex spreadsheets Knowledge of external or proprietary large retail POS, markdown, and planning and reporting systems Some travel necessary including trend research trips, product development trips, and store visits