Merchandiser (Sponsorship Available) At NEXT

Summary

Working Pattern: Typically 5 days in the office, with core hours flexible between 8am-6pm.

The Role

NEXT is looking for a Merchandiser who would relish a new challenge or a Senior Assistant Merchandiser who is ready to take the next step. The role requires commercial awareness, the ability to maximise sales, and experience in trading as well as motivating a team. This is a 12 month fixed term contract.

What You’ll Take On

Monitoring In-Season Performance and Trading Opportunities: Track sales performance, inventory levels, and markdowns throughout the season. Identify trends and patterns to make informed decisions and adjustments. Implement strategies to maximise profitability and minimise risk.

Formulating Range Structure Proposals: Analyse market trends, consumer preferences, and sales data to identify opportunities as well as develop range structures that align with the brands’ positioning and target market. Present proposals outlining assortment plans, pricing strategies, and key product features.

Presenting in Internal and External Meetings: Prepare visually engaging presentations that effectively communicate range proposals. Clearly articulate rationale behind proposals, incorporating data and insights. Address questions and concerns from stakeholders with confidence and clarity.

Appraising Performance and Proposing Strategies: Evaluate previous season performance, departmental metrics, and supplier performance. Identify strengths, weaknesses, opportunities, and threats and propose strategies to address performance gaps and capitalise on opportunities.

Maintaining Merchandise Systems: Ensure accuracy in merchandise systems by updating data regularly. Confirm supplier contracts and maintain correct sizing, forecasts, and inventory levels. Conduct regular audits to identify and resolve discrepancies. Responsible for preparing and communicating data and sales information to the brands.

Controlling Spend: Review budgets regularly to monitor spending and identify opportunities for cost savings. Analyse spending patterns and implement strategies to optimise allocation of resources. Negotiate favourable terms with suppliers to achieve cost efficiencies.

Guiding Trainees and Management: Provide clear direction and support to assistants, setting expectations and goals. Delegate tasks effectively, providing guidance and feedback as needed. Monitor progress and provide coaching to help trainees and assistants develop skills and confidence.

What You’ll Bring

Great Communication Skills: Prepare clear and engaging presentations for internal meetings and external discussions. Tailor communication style to audience, ensuring information is conveyed effectively and actively listen to feedback and respond thoughtfully to questions or concerns. Must be confident in dealing with senior stakeholders and their teams in order to build a trust based relationship.

Solid Technical Merchandising Skills: Utilise technical expertise to analyse data, forecast sales, and plan inventory effectively. Ensure accuracy in merchandise systems and contract negotiations to support successful trading relationships. Stay updated on industry best practices and trends to enhance merchandising capabilities.

Energetic, Enthusiastic, and Self-Confident: Approach role with energy and enthusiasm, inspiring others with passion and positivity. Demonstrate confidence in abilities and decisions, especially when presenting information or leading discussions.

Open-Mindedness to New Ways of Working: Embrace innovation and creativity, actively seeking out new ideas and solutions to challenges. Be receptive to feedback and different perspectives, recognising that diverse viewpoints can lead to better outcomes. Encourage a culture of continuous improvement and experimentation within the team.

Enjoyment of the Product/Trend Side of the Role: Stay informed about the latest developments and innovations in products and trends. Use passion for products and trends to drive creative merchandising strategies and inspire the team. Actively seek opportunities to collaborate with design teams and brand partners to bring innovative products to market.

Sponsorship

Candidates wishing to apply who would require sponsorship for this role will be required to meet the Home Office sponsorship requirements. For further information please see: https://www.gov.uk/skilled-worker-visa.

Additional Information

NEXT encourages early applications for roles, as the recruitment process begins as soon as the role is advertised. If the position is filled early, the advert may close sooner than planned.

NEXT operates as a Google-powered workspace. From day one, employees use Google Workspace tools including Docs, Drive, and Meet.

Support and guidance are provided for candidates transitioning from other software suites.

#LI-Onsite

Benefits

25 days holiday plus bank holidays
Profit-related bonus
Private medical insurance
Sharesave scheme
Pension contributions and AVC options
Life assurance
Group income protection
Wagestream
Salary finance
25% staff discount on NEXT products
Direct to work delivery service
VIP sale early access
Staff shops access
EV salary sacrifice scheme (Octopus Energy)
Free parking (excluding London locations)
Travel2NEXT bus services (location dependent)
On-site dining (excluding London locations)
Discounts on goods and services (including cinema tickets)
Wellhub gym discounts
Simplyhealth subscription
Aviva Digicare Workplace+
Onsite GP and Physio (Leicester Head Office)
Wellbeing partners access
Free eye testing voucher

Benefits are discretionary and subject to change.

Support for Applicants

NEXT supports applicants during the application process and provides workplace adjustments where needed.

How to Apply

If this opportunity interests you, head to the company’s official website for full details — click here to submit your application.