Director of Merchandising

At Vanguards we recognize the growth of the fashion and lifestyle industries depend upon a careful synergy of responsible business practice and commercial ambition. Our investment platform is devised with this in mind - to support the bold creative vision, develop dynamic sustainable practices, and maximize commerciality for our brands and investors.

The Director of Merchandising is responsible for overlooking and developing our portfolio brand's complete product portfolios, along with monitoring the seasonal collection performances on the various sales channels. The ideal candidate will develop and maintain a thorough knowledge of the luxury market and fashion trends. S/he will also communicate market and trend information to management in order to reach KPIs and overall brand vision. This role reports directly to the CEO, which involves a close working relationship with the Brand Managing Directors and Creative Directors in order to develop an aligned point of view regarding the product offering.

Main duties will include but are not limited to:

• Develop a seasonal range plan suggestion for all categories and present it to the Design team and management, accurately representing the brand identity whilst ensuring market demand satisfaction
• Meet the needs of current product demands of the market, in addition to capitalizing on emerging product trends quickly
• Drive new product trends in the market as necessary to build sales and brand equity
• Responsible for in-season product optimization and accountability - ensure that the product assortment performs strongly in all areas of the market during the season, and take corrective action as required to ensure product sell-thru is optimized and stock liability is minimized
• Work cross-functionally with Design, Finance, Marketing, Wholesale, Supply Chain, Operations, Customer Service and E-Commerce, in order to gain alignment behind strategic needs and priorities
• Collate regular feedback from the Wholesale, Online and Store teams in order to help shape the range
• Advise and monitor optimal intake flow
• Implement and develop the reporting and analytics structure, to closely monitor daily, weekly and monthly sales
• Ensure that pricing and promotional strategies maximize volume and margin goals
• Analyze sales, and stock to base decisions on
• Pro-actively look for commercial opportunities at the B2B and B2C channels and act accordingly based on sales, stock, and intake
• Make sure that KPIs are set, tracked, and achieved

The ideal candidate will have the following skillset and experience:

• 8+ years of experience in planning and buying
• Global retail experience
• Superior analytical skills and a proactive attitude
• Advanced Excel skills
• Ability to manage the merchandising department of 3-5) employees and growing (strong skills and experience in coaching, training and managing a team) and to cooperate successfully with all the involved departments
• Budget and forecast planning experience combined with the understanding of the end-to-end inventory planning process dynamics
• Action/result-oriented approach
• Strong customer focus
• Demonstrated knowledge of and experience working within the competitive contemporary landscape
• Ability to work under pressure, meet deadlines and handle multiple projects in a fast-paced environment
• Strong understanding of modern luxury
• Multi-category product experience with strong product trend understanding
• Proven track record of sustaining business growth
• Available to work full time, willing to frequently travel

We offer:

• Competitive compensation package
• A young and forward-thinking team and the growing stable of the hottest emerging brands on the market 
• The possibility to learn, develop yourself and be part of the growth story of Vanguards
• A purpose-driven business with a focus on sustainability in all aspects of our business