Sr. Merchandiser- Womenswear (Planning) | M&S | Retail | UAE

Overview of the role: Senior Merchandiser is responsible for the BU Strategy to drive Sales and Cash Margin and is accountable for achieving the Key Business KPI’s of Sales, Cash Margin, Markdown Cost and Closing Stock. He/she controls Space and OTB Planning plus Product Selection. Senior Merchandiser is responsible for Team Management and Team Development ensuring high energy and engagement whilst building and maintaining effective Cross-Functional relationships, including those with the Host Brand. What you will do:- Description of Accountability: BUSINESS PLAN AND DELIVERY OF KEY KPI’s • Formulate Annual Business Plan • Constantly search for Business Opportunities to increase Sales and Cash Margin • Detailed knowledge of BU, Markets operated in and Key Competitor’s • Manage BU WSSI SALES AND OTB PLANNING • Plan appropriate Sales and Cash Margin by Department/ Range • Plan appropriate Sales/ Cash Margin by Store • Plan appropriate Space for each Department/ Range in each Store • Plan appropriate OTB and Options by T Department/ Range • Cut OTB: Core v Fashion Flow v Fashion • Plan appropriate e-Commerce Buy RANGE DETAIL PLANNING • Management of Core Template to drive Core Availability • Size Cut Strategy by Department/ Market • Appropriate Good/ Better/ Best Offer • Sufficient Volume on Key OPP’S PRODUCT SELECTION • Detailed Preparation for UK Buying Fairs • Clear IBO Strategy • Sign Off every Catalogue • Opportunity Buys to Support Marketing Strategy • Spend Control • Margin Optimization TRADE • Weekly Team Meeting and Actions • Weekly Store Communication (GM Action News) • Define and Manage Allocation Blueprint • Define and Manage Replenishment Strategy by Type of Product/ Market • Implement Robust Promotional Calendar • Implement robust Innovations Communication • Ensure Opening Price Points well executed and Messaged In-Store • Effective Markdown Management – controlling Shop in Shop Statements but clearing Seasonal Lines MARKET AWARENESS • Conduct Quarterly Comp Shops • Report on Key Missed Opportunities • Conduct Quarterly SWOT with Store Champions • Engage in Market Visits STAKEHOLDER ENGAGEMENT • Build Good Relationships with Senior Merchandiser Colleagues within M&S • Build good relationships with M&S Operations Team, VM Team and Marketing Team Build good working relationship with UK LEADING PEOPLE • Engage team with relevant Objectives, inclusion in the ‘Bigger Picture’ plus continued Feedback and Development Opportunities • Provide coaching for development and ensure succession within the team working with HRBP on Talent Management • Role model Al-Futtaim Way Behaviours and M&S Values Required Skills to be successful: • A Confident Leader • Able to handle Complexity • Excellent Planning and Organizing Skills • Attention to Detail • Highly Numerate • Product Confident • Good Communicator • Collaborative Style • Optimistic Attitude • Works at Pace with an Impatience to get things Done • Strong track record of People Management • Cultural Awareness • Womenswear or Middle East Experience preferred • Graduate or Graduate Calibre • Good working knowledge of Excel • Knowledge of SAP an additional advantage What equips you for the role: • Graduate (Masters Preferred) • Minimum 8 Years’ Experience in Fashion Planning and Merchandising • Good Communications skills • Excellent in Microsoft Excel