Head of Merchandising

From humble beginnings to disruptive innovations in the retail industry, find out about how Matalan is ever-evolving here.

We know as a team, we are stronger together – we champion equality for all and make lasting connections that go beyond work. We thrive off our inclusive culture, encouraging our colleagues to bring their true selves to work and contributing to collective creativity, open-mindedness and growth.

We want give every candidate the opportunity to perform at their best throughout the application and interview process and then ultimately in their role. If you require any adjustments during our recruitment process, please don’t hesitate to let us know.

In the event that a high volume of suitable applications are received, the post may close prior to the specified closing date. Please apply as soon as possible if interested.

Responsible for both the strategic direction and day to day management of all Merchandising Divisions, working collaboratively with the Heads of Buying, to implement and drive the divisional and departmental strategies in line with the business vision and to lead the team in landing the strategy successfully.

• Overall ownership of the Divisional merch strategy including the creating and implementing the divisional strategy, planning trade and stock management across all product categories and channels
• Lead the merchandising teams in their creation and delivery of profitable and commercial ranges that meet customer expectations
• Initiate and optimise the planning cycle taking account of all product trends and channels Ensure that KPIs and targets for the department are met, maximising growth and profit opportunities
• Control budgets and prioritise work across the divisions
• Identify new business opportunities in line with our competitors and the market
• Establish the seasonal strategy and range structure
• Work in collaboration with the other Head of Merchandising and Heads of Buying, supporting and challenging them to achieve overall business objectives
• Work with the HOB’s and sourcing team to achieve best fit sourcing model to support growth
• Use trading information to influence the wider Trading teams to maximise opportunities and minimise risk
• Work to optimise stock flow through the business with clear strategies to deliver on time stock throughout the season
• Work closely with import team to drive efficiencies through the supply chain
• To commercially manage the inbound distribution forecasts into 2 DC’s to agreed capacity levels to optimise availability across all channels
• Drive margin improvement through better management of inbound supply, container fill and consolidation
• Work closely with the Merchandise Director to drive broader commercial thinking with key stakeholders, including peers and the Board, challenging them to consider the latest innovations and technology
• Take a key role in nay new technical developments and drive a positive attitude in the team
• Work closely with the HOB ‘s to ensure future trends have been built into the plans from all channels
• Work closely with the Marketing function to develop clear product promotions whilst keeping within the markdown budgets .Build a commercial promotional plan liaising with e commerce, channels, marketing and VM team
• Act as a role model within the team, living the company values at all times
• Coach and develop the Merchandising team consisting of approx. 45

In addition to competitive salaries, we also offer the below core benefits:

• 20% staff discount, which increases with length of service
• Thrive Recognition Scheme
• Wellbeing support provided by the Retail Trust
• Life Assurance
• Retail Rewards platform offering discounts for other retailers
• Pension Scheme
• Access to a wide range of career development
• Additional benefits may apply depending on your role and area of the business