UAEN Assistant Merchandiser | Retail | M&S

UAE Nationals Only.

Overview Of The Role:

• The Assistant Merchandiser plays a crucial role in supporting the Senior Merchandiser and Merchandiser within the business unit, contributing to sales and customer management through detailed analysis and strategic planning. Key responsibilities include managing allocation processes, producing insightful reports, assisting in catalogue buying, leading communication with stores, and guiding team development. Success in this role is measured by improved stock availability, accurate data analysis leading to informed business decisions, effective range development, and strong team engagement. Understanding the market and maintaining a passion for the M&S brand are essential elements of the role.

What You Will Do:

Allocation Process

• Manage accurate BTF setting and ratio balancing.
• Guide and train allocators on processes and systems.
• Manage and implement AI Allocation solution from Invent Analytics.
• Liaise with stores to understand regional needs, ensuring optimum stock levels and correct size availability.
• Improve availability and sell-through rates through strategic allocations.

Business Reports and Analysis

• Generate accurate and clear reports, maintaining the reporting process.
• Track promotions and analyze weekly trade reports to recommend action points.
• Report and flag best/worst sellers, analyze customer habits, and understand product choices.
• Housekeep data and produce seasonal sales analysis to recommend future buying decisions.
• Assist in making informed buying decisions through qualitative and quantitative actions.

Catalogue Buying

• Assist Senior Merchandiser/Merchandiser in the Catalogue Buying process.
• Maintain Core Buying sheet and implement Demand Planning solution.
• Enter buying quantities to IBT/Digital Range Building system and prepare planograms using DRB.
• Use reporting to compare against last year's data, buying budget, and promotional calendar.
• Generate IBO ranges and contribute to BU strategy with market awareness.

Communication

• Serve as the first point of contact for stores regarding stock-related issues.
• Assist in weekly trade communications and contribute to retail conference planning.
• Facilitate digital transformation, ensuring seamless product journey in-store and online.
• Provide clear and accurate information for all business users, maintaining a good relationship with Principal.
• Ensure product data and descriptions online are customer-friendly and support a strong online offer.

Leading People

• Work towards SMART Objectives and communicate strategic direction.
• Provide coaching for team development and ensure succession planning with HRBP.
• Role model Al-Futtaim Way Behaviours and M&S Values, ensuring high engagement scores.
• Facilitate quality PDR processes to enhance team performance and growth.

Required Skills To Be Successful:

• Strong analytical and numerical skills with attention to detail.
• Excellent communication skills and ability to collaborate effectively with team and store staff.
• Ability to manage complexity and make informed decisions based on data analysis.
• Passion for retail and the M&S brand, with a commitment to customer satisfaction and product excellence.

What Qualifies You For The Role:

• Degree in Business Management or related field.
• At least 3 years of experience in Fashion Buying and Merchandising at AM or Allocator level.
• Experience within retail buying environment, preferably in MENA and/or Europe with knowledge of UK/European brands.
• High proficiency in Excel and key Microsoft applications; knowledge of SAP is beneficial.