Merchandiser

Castore exists for one single reason to make athletes better. Our ethos is built upon the philosophy of BETTER NEVER STOPS an ideal deeply infused in our DNA and something we strive to live every single day. We utilise advanced engineering and unique technical fabrics to create the highest quality sportswear in the world for athletes who demand the very best. Designed with a passion for innovation with specialist features to help to optimise athletic performance in all conditions.

The founders vision is to build Castore into a brand respected across the globe for a deep and unrelenting commitment to engineering the highest quality sportswear in the world with no stone left unturned in its search for innovation and performance enhancement.

The sportswear market has been dominated by a small clique of mass-market brands and the vision is for Castore to be a premium alternative to these the natural brand of choice for discerning athletes who demand the very best.

The Role

The Merchandiser works closely with the Merchandising Director to deliver product strategy and maximise commercial opportunities for their department.

This is achieved through effective inventory management accurate forecasting and improving availability to increase trading and reduce markdown spend and drive profitability of the business.

Responsibilities

Working closely with the Category Management team to build a commercial range.

Developing detailed range plans with appropriate product phasing to ensure availability is maximised and to minimise terminal stock.

Monitors and maintains buying margin and gross profit margins to maximise profitability.

Monitoring range plans and trading plans to ensure optimum stock levels are achieved and OTB is maximised at all times to realise full revenue potential .

Maximising in-season trading opportunities to ensure optimum trading and profitability.

Reacting to trading activity suggesting markdowns and promotions where appropriate.

Builds and reforecast the WSSI to maximise and monitor KPIs.

Working closely with other departments in the business Category Management Marketing Product Development Quality Assurance Online Trading and Retail

Maintaining a collaborative approach to work and ensuring that all ranges and promotions are in line with business strategy and aligned with brand values.

Performing detailed analysis and reporting at yearly seasonal weekly level by department category line and attribute. Identifying sales patterns and potential trading opportunities.

Recruiting training and motivating a team ( AM and MAA) to ensure that business and brand objectives are met

Skills & Experience

Currently working as a Merchandiser experience at this level.

Good understanding of Retail KPIs and how to influence them (sales profit markdown)

Advanced Excel skills with a high level proficiency with other Microsoft Office programs.

Experience of managing/leading a team

Experience of setting up and maintaining a WSSI category and line cards.

Netsuite and BI experience would be beneficial but not essential

What We Offer

Competitive salary
Discretionary bonus scheme
25 days annual leave (plus bank holidays)
Modern city centre offices in Manchester
An opportunity to work with global sporting partners
Office breakout space with pool tables dart board and TVs
A chance to build a career with a fast paced high growth brand
Employee assistance programme
Generous staff discount