Merchandising Officer

About the role

The Merchandising Officer leads, strategizes, monitors and reports on category performance (sales, margin, stock holding, market share and flow objectives) under the guidance of the Category Head or Merchandising Manager. The role covers budgeting, forecasting, supplier negotiations and category strategy.

Key responsibilities

• Budget, forecast and set category-level strategy to achieve assigned sales and margin targets
• Negotiate annual contract terms with suppliers (margins, pricing, volumes, product range, MSL, returns, replenishment, payment terms)
• Work with stores to maintain healthy sales, profit and inventory levels
• Stay updated on retail and category trends, new products and display methods
• Monitor competitors and develop counter-strategies to gain market share year-on-year, month-on-month and week-on-week
• Collaborate with Marketing on category strategy and provide inputs; liaise with Product Registration, vendor coordination, finance and store teams
• Manage supplier reconciliations, rebates and disputes, and oversee OTB and inventory levels
• Analyze customer product needs using internal survey and GfK data, and adjust product ranges and buying patterns
• Plan weekly/monthly promotions, keep planograms and assortments up to date, and clear ageing and EOL stock
• Manage in-season performance through sales vs. stock, stock balancing and margin analysis
• Oversee supplier training for new products and drive GMROF and GMROI targets

Required profile

• 3+ years of experience in category management in retail, preferably electronics
• Postgraduate degree; MBA in Sales and Marketing desirable
• Professional certifications

Required skills

• Planning and organizing
• Analytical and problem-solving skills
• Communication, negotiation and presentation skills