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Apparel Merchandise and Design Manager
Job Location:
Job Location:
Durban - South Africa
Monthly Salary:
Not provided by the employer
Monthly Salary:
Posted:
28 May 2026 (30+ days ago)
Posted:
Application Deadline:
25 August 2026
Application Deadline:
Vacancies:
1 Vacancy
Vacancies:
Job Summary
A prominent South African retail brand is seeking an Apparel Merchandise Manager to lead the planning sourcing and execution of imported and locally manufactured apparel ranges for a global outdoor performance and lifestyle brand.
The role focuses on driving product assortment inventory pricing profitability and overall brand alignment.
The role focuses on driving product assortment inventory pricing profitability and overall brand alignment.
Key Responsibilities:
Merchandise Planning & Strategy:
IMPORTANT NOTICE
By applying to this advert you hereby acknowledge that you have read and accept the following Protection of Personal Information ACT (POPIA) disclaimer:
I hereby consent for Talented Recruitment to process my personal information as part of the recruitment process. Talented Recruitment shall take all reasonable measures to protect the personal information of applicants and for the purpose of this disclaimer personal information shall be defined as detailed in the Protection of Personal Information Act Act 4 of 2013 (POPIA).
Merchandise Planning & Strategy:
- Develop seasonal merchandise plans aligned with global brand direction and local market needs
- Build balanced assortments across categories (performance running outdoor and lifestyle)
- Translate global product collections into commercially viable local assortments
- Collaborate with global brand partners on product selection forecasting and local range approval
- Accountability for the end-to-end product lifecycle
- Manage product from concept/ selection through to end of life
- Monitor product performance and implement in-season trading actions when required
- Lead markdown replenishment and exit strategies
- Ensure alignment between imported and locally manufactured ranges
- Take full ownership of range development and product creation
- A working understanding of design fit and construction
- Design sourcing and work with production teams to develop locally manufactured apparel and accessories
- Identify gaps in global ranges and create locally relevant products
- Ensure local product meets the brand standards quality and cost/ RSP targets
- Manage timelines from range conceptualization through to bulk production
- Forecast demand and manage OTB budgets for brand stores
- Optimize inventory levels across channels (wholesale retail & e-commerce)
- Track sell through stock turn and aging inventory
- Work closely with supply chain to ensure timely delivery
- Set pricing strategies aligned with brand positioning and local market dynamics
- Monitor margins across imported and locally produced product
- Identify opportunities to improve profitability through mix sourcing and cost control
- Work closely with marketing on campaign alignment and product launches
- Partner with retail teams to select range and ensure effective in-store execution
- Collaborate with e-commerce on assortment and online sales strategy
- Liase with senior management on budgets forecasts and margin tracking
- Ensure all product aligns with global brand identity and guidelines
- Adapt global trends to meet local consumer preferences
- Monitor competitor activity and market trends in performance and lifestyle apparel
- Sales growth and sell through rates
- Gross margin and profitability
- Stock turn and inventory health
- Forecast accuracy
- On-time delivery (imported and local production)
- Success and growth of locally developed product ranges
- Bachelors degree in Fashion Merchandising Business Retail or related field
- Good understanding of design patterns and product fit will be beneficial
- 5-8 years experience in apparel merchandising (sport/ lifestyle preferred)
- Experience working with international brands or licensors
- Strong understanding of local manufacturing/ sourcing processes
- Proven track record in planning forecasting and trading
- Strong analytical and numerical skills
- Commercial acumen and trend awareness
- Excellent planning and organizational skills
- Ability to balance global brand requirements with local market needs
- Clear communication and stake holder management skills
- Proficiency in merchandising systems and Excel
IMPORTANT NOTICE
By applying to this advert you hereby acknowledge that you have read and accept the following Protection of Personal Information ACT (POPIA) disclaimer:
I hereby consent for Talented Recruitment to process my personal information as part of the recruitment process. Talented Recruitment shall take all reasonable measures to protect the personal information of applicants and for the purpose of this disclaimer personal information shall be defined as detailed in the Protection of Personal Information Act Act 4 of 2013 (POPIA).
Required Experience:
Manager
About Company
A talented team of Recruitment specialists operating throughout South Africa, dedicated to connecting the right talent with the right career.
