Senior Merchandiser

• We are seeking a dynamic, commercially driven Senior Merchandiser to join a fast-paced import and wholesale business supplying major retail chains. The successful candidate will be responsible for sourcing trend-driven footwear products internationally, developing strong retailer relationships, managing key retail accounts, and driving sales growth within allocated product categories.

Key Responsibilities

• Research, source and develop new footwear products from international suppliers, primarily in China
• Identify emerging trends and introduce innovative, commercially viable products to retail customers.
• Manage and grow allocated product categories and retail accounts.
• Drive sales growth by proactively presenting new ranges and opportunities to buyers.
• Negotiate and work within required pricing and margin parameters.
• Build and maintain strong, professional relationships with retail buyers and suppliers.
• Prepare product presentations, quotations and category proposals.
• Analyse category performance, sales history and pricing structures to identify growth opportunities.
• Travel internationally for sourcing trips and trade fairs when required.
• Ensure excellent administration, organisation and follow-through on all projects and orders.

Candidate Profile The ideal candidate will be:

• Commercially minded, ambitious and sales-driven.
• Passionate about product, trends, retail and sourcing.
• Highly organised with strong administrative and planning skills.
• Energetic, proactive and able to work independently.
• Strong in relationship management and confident in dealing with buyers and suppliers.
• Able to thrive in a high-performance, target-driven environment.
• Detail-oriented with strong analytical and problem-solving abilities.
• Prepared to travel internationally to factories and trade fairs.

Key Performance Areas

• Sales growth within allocated categories and accounts.
• Product innovation and successful introduction of new ranges.
• Margin management.
• Buyer relationship management and service excellence.
• Effective category management and strategic planning.
• Accountability for category performance and achievement of targets.

Preferred Experience

• Previous experience in merchandising, sourcing, importing or wholesale.
• Footwear merchandising experience would be highly advantageous; however, candidates from accessories, apparel/clothing or homeware with strong merchandising and sourcing experience are encouraged to apply.
• Experience working with major retail chains.
• Strong understanding of product development, pricing and margin management.
• Exposure to international sourcing and trade fairs.