Merchandising, Category Manager - Jackets and Bottoms

Category Manager: The Position

Working alongside Design, Product Development, as well as the leaders of other product categories, as well. This role will be working closely with the planning and design teams in translating product needs and opportunities into a profitable and brand-forward category, as well as with the Buying team in bringing the products to the markets.

Key Responsibilities:

Working closely with global markets and channel managers to understand and analyze market performance and trend through various inputs. Building category assortments with consumers and market lense in mind, aligned with overall brand strategy with consideration of effective concept to consumers thought process through collaboration with the design & buying teams.

- Taking the lead in the product creation process from a merchandising perspective, together with the line manager, design and product development, including;

- Managing the Category Line Planning process and content, overseeing the execution from both product merchandising and merchandising planning team to channel allocations 

- Provide a clear frame / schedule and clear priorities in order to help the team manage key steps and tasks in a timely and efficient manners Owning merchandising KPI adherence that fulfills growth target, profitability and efficiency together with Product Development and Design collaboration, including;

- Approach the delivery and assortment flow strategically to maximize business opportunity and constant cross-divisional alignment in Collection message, in partnership with PD and B&P departments,

- Coordinate and supervise sales forecasts to optimize delivery process through correct capacity planning and minimize inventory risks

- Active contribution in division milestone; sketch/proto review/product creation milestones 

- Build the category with a customer lens and a chapter (B&M) first perspective 

Preferred Qualifications:

- Minimal 10 years' experience in Merchandising, product management, brand management or merchandise role within an International operating footwear accessories brand.

- Understand apparel and the global market lancscape, accounts, distribution with strong commercial awareness

- Ability to read consumers, market trends, and fashion awareness

- Excellent analytic, organization and planning skills

- Excellent communication, presentation, ability in translating ideas into compelling products and business story telling verbally as well as in compelling deck

- Strong influencing, negotiating and networking skills

- Team player with proven strong and inspirational leadership skills, previous experience of building and managing a team, coaching and developing

- Fluent English both written and verbal; other languages are a plus

- Ability to travel on business when needed