Merchandise Manager – Merchandising Manager – Merchandise Planning
General Merchandise – Technology and Mobile

Based at Asda House in Leeds

About the role:

We have a brilliant opportunity for a Merchandise Manager/ Merchandising Manager to work on the technology & mobile areas of General Merchandise. This is a high turnover category with a broad product range covering: tech accessories, printers and ink, mobile, laptop and tablets. You'll work closely with the two buyers to generate range plans that deliver a customer-focused and commercially successful product offer. You will focus on improving our sales, profit, availability and inventory performance.
The range consists of both import and domestic sourced product. The range includes both very fast moving high margin lines to slower moving and lower margin hardware lines. You will be responsible for supervising and supporting an Assistant Merchandiser.

The ins and outs:

•Along with the Buyers, taking ownership for delivering the category P&L
•Trading and planning for your product area
•Planning and implementing exit strategies while minimising markdown
•Carrying out in-depth range and promotional planning, analysing historic performance and influencing future activity
•Driving appropriate buy volumes through accurate forecasting with the Supply team
•Reacting quickly to changes in day to day trading
•Developing close working relationships with suppliers
•This is a fast paced role and the ability to easily switch between longer term strategy and immediate trading priorities is essential

What you’ll need:

•A proven track record in a merchandising/ merchandise planning role
•Strong analytical and Excel skills
•Great attention to detail and clarity of thinking
•Strong planning, prioritising and organisational skills
•Ability to work at a fast pace and under pressure
•Ability to influence and build strong working relationships
•Strong communication/influencing skills to manage key stakeholders
•Some line management experience preferable