<p>A commercial and creative leader, the Merchandising Manager plans product ranges, shapes pricing and visual presentation to maximise sales and margin. This role combines data analysis, supplier negotiation and in-store or online presentation to deliver a compelling customer offer. The Merchandising Manager will work closely with buying, marketing and store teams to ensure the right product is in the right place at the right time.</p>
<p>This job description outlines the purpose, scope and expectations for the Merchandising Manager. Use this template to attract candidates with retail expertise and strong commercial instincts.</p>
<h2>Merchandising Manager Job Profile</h2>
<p>The Merchandising Manager leads range planning, price architecture and visual merchandising to maximise sales and margin across allocated categories. This role requires a balance of commercial analysis, supplier management and creative foresight to shape the customer proposition.</p>
<p>Reporting to the Head of Buying, the postholder collaborates with stores, e-commerce and marketing to deliver seasonal plans, promotions and merchandising standards that reflect the brand and respond to market trends.</p>
<h2>Merchandising Manager Job Description</h2>
<p>The Merchandising Manager develops and implements merchandising strategies that align with commercial objectives. You will analyse sales data and market trends to build assortments, allocate stock to channels and recommend pricing and promotional activity. The role includes forecasting demand, managing stock levels and working with suppliers to secure competitive terms and timely deliveries.</p>
<p>Day-to-day duties include producing range plans, reviewing sell-through and margin performance, and adjusting assortments to optimise turnover. You will brief visual merchandising teams and ensure that in-store and online presentation reflects seasonal themes and brand standards. Collaboration with marketing and e-commerce is essential to coordinate launches and promotional calendars.</p>
<p>The successful candidate will use analytical tools and insight to drive decisions and present business cases to senior stakeholders. You will manage relationships with key suppliers, negotiate commercial deals and resolve supply issues. A focus on continuous improvement and operational excellence is expected to support store operations and fulfilment centres.</p>
<h2>Merchandising Manager Duties and Responsibilities</h2>
<ul>
<li>Develop category strategies and seasonal range plans aligned to business targets.</li>
<li>Analyse sales, margin and inventory data to inform buying and replenishment decisions.</li>
<li>Create pricing structures and promotional plans to drive volume and profitability.</li>
<li>Manage supplier relationships, negotiate costs and agree on delivery schedules.</li>
<li>Allocate stock across channels and monitor sell-through to reduce markdowns.</li>
<li>Lead visual merchandising briefs for in-store and online presentation.</li>
<li>Work with marketing to align product launches and promotional activity.</li>
<li>Prepare regular performance reports and present insights to senior management.</li>
<li>Support store and fulfilment teams to resolve operational and supply chain issues.</li>
<li>Champion continuous improvement in merchandising processes and systems.</li>
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<h2>Merchandising Manager Requirements and Qualifications</h2>
<ul>
<li>Degree in retail management, business, marketing or related discipline, or equivalent experience.</li>
<li>Minimum 3 to 5 years of experience in merchandising, buying or category management, preferably in retail or e-commerce.</li>
<li>Strong commercial acumen with experience in margin management and pricing.</li>
<li>Proven ability to analyse sales data and translate insight into action.</li>
<li>Excellent negotiation and supplier management skills.</li>
<li>Good knowledge of visual merchandising principles and omnichannel retail.</li>
<li>Proficient with merchandising and reporting tools, spreadsheets and ERP systems.</li>
<li>Strong communication and stakeholder management skills.</li>
<li>Highly organised, able to manage multiple projects and meet deadlines.</li>
<li>Comfortable working in a fast-paced retail environment and leading cross-functional teams.</li>
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