Branch Merchandiser

Here at Peacocks we have a fantastic opportunity for a Branch Merchandiser to join our expanding Merchandising department.

The role of the Branch Merchandiser is to maximise Sales and Profit through efficient stock management, potentialising sales and minimising markdown.

Responsibilities/Objectives:

Store Grading
• Fully analyse the previous Seasons statistics to identify trends and issues.
• Produce initial Seasonal grading using historical or forecasted sales and upload on system ready for the Season launch.
• Hold Grading Review Meetings with Regional Managers to identify any opportunities or concerns and agree finalised Grades for the Season.
• Set clear grading policy guidelines and maintain through Weekly, Monthly and Seasonal reporting.
• Set basic space/stock parameters in relation to Grading and Store Profile.
• Create and distribute Seasonal Footprints to Retail Teams with finalised Grades and planned space.
In Season Stock Management/Trading
• Conduct regular review of Store Stock packages and volumes.
• Agree and propose to Retail Teams stock movements as necessary.
• Undertake analysis to establish Store seasonal sales opportunities e.g. Summer Stores, and agree with Regional Managers.
• Propose and action any recommended Range/Allocation changes to potentialise Sales.
• Manage markdown packages ensuring that stores are carrying appropriate quantities in line with Business Plan.
Opening/Closing Stores
• Attend Estates Meetings alongside all relevant areas of the business including Directors.
• Liaise with necessary Departments for actions required in line with the Critical Path – including external Concession Providers.
Opening Stores
• Request information for New Store from Estates and Retail Teams, to create equipment and Stock requirements.
• Set up Store on system for Allocation, Replenishment, Reporting and Distribution.
• Produce list of lines for Allocation Team to commence build of Stock Package.
• Monitor stock build by department until required levels are met, keeping Regional Manager updated throughout.
Closure Stores
• Update Store on system to discontinue allocation and replenishment.
• Provide information and reporting to Regional Manager to arrange transfers in support of Closedown stance.

Store Visits
• Identify key Stores and co-ordinate visits with Regional Manager/Store Manager and Stock Distribution Team.
• Provide feedback on visits and any action taken to Retail and Merchandising Directors.
• Create necessary analysis for B&M/Retail Teams to support their Store visit schedule.
Business Support
• Assist eCommerce Teams with stock rebalancing, including transfers to and from Stores.
• Authorise Delivery frequency and agree Schedules with Distribution Centre and Transport Teams.
• Co-ordinate with Loss Prevention and Stock Ledger Teams for Store Audit and Stock File queries.
• Provide Sales analysis and Store information to Finance Teams for ongoing Site reviews.

The suitable candidate:
• Previous experience working within a Head Office Merchandising department or Retail Management.
• Experience working in a fast paced environment with the ability to manage and prioritise workload alongside tight deadlines.
• Have the ability to communicate with all levels of the Business including Director.
• Strong excel skills.
• Highly numerate.
• Good presentation skills.
• Commercially aware with interest in fashion retail industry.
• Be flexible, enthusiastic and confident.