The Role
We are launching a dedicated Value Licensing team, a high-growth initiative designed to establish NEXT as the destination for affordable, licensed products across Womenswear, Menswear and Childrenswear. This brand-new team will focus on securing new partnerships, expanding our category reach, and delivering ranges that capture key market trends. This is an incredible opportunity to be part of something new and extremely exciting.
As an Assistant Merchandiser, you'll be at the forefront of driving the excitement for the products. Your technical skills in data analysis and inventory management will be crucial in making informed decisions and keeping everything running smoothly. You will be driving range building and selection meetings, managing the supplier base and trading your range to maximise sales and minimise markdown seizing opportunities that you spot to keep the range fresh and exciting.
This role is based at The Barn, our Market Harborough office.
What You’ll Take On
Assist in creating balanced, commercial ranges : Analyse market trends, consumer preferences, and sales data to identify opportunities as well as develop range structures that align with brand positioning and target market. Present proposals outlining assortment plans, pricing strategies, and key product features.
Presenting in Formal Meetings: Prepare presentations that effectively communicate range proposals. Clearly articulate rationale behind proposals, incorporating data and insights. Address questions and concerns from stakeholders with confidence and clarity.
Critical Path Management: Cultivate open communication with the other functions within the team and suppliers to ensure that production is planned, selection meetings are happening at the right time for deliveries to hit key launch dates and marketing campaigns.
Controlling Spend: Review budgets regularly to monitor spending and identify opportunities for cost savings. Analyse spending patterns and implement strategies to optimise allocation of resources. Negotiate favourable terms with suppliers to achieve cost efficiencies/ flexibility on MOQs
Monitoring In-Season Performance: Track sales performance, inventory levels, and markdowns throughout the season. Identify trends and patterns to make informed decisions and adjustments. Implement strategies to maximise profitability and minimise risk. Collate trade summaries and discuss reasons for under and overperformance.
What You’ll Bring
Communication Skills: Clearly articulate ideas, proposals, and strategies to stakeholders in both verbal and written communication. Foster open and transparent communication within the team, ensuring everyone is on the same page. Listen actively to understand the needs and perspectives of others, fostering collaboration and mutual understanding.
Technical Merchandising Skills: Utilise data analysis tools and techniques to interpret sales data, market trends, and performance metrics. Understand inventory management systems and merchandising software to maintain accurate records and make informed decisions. Apply pricing and markdown strategies effectively to optimise sales and profitability.
Open-Mindedness: Embrace new ideas, approaches, and perspectives, recognizing that innovation often comes from unconventional sources. Be willing to adapt to changing market dynamics and evolving consumer preferences. Encourage creativity and innovation within the team, fostering a culture of continuous improvement.
Passion for Product and Trends: Stay informed about the latest trends, developments, and innovations in the industry. Demonstrate enthusiasm and excitement for the products you're merchandising, inspiring others with your passion. Use your knowledge and insights into consumer preferences to curate assortments that resonate with your target audience.
Sponsorship
Candidates wishing to apply who would require sponsorship for this role will be required to meet the Home Office sponsorship requirements. For further information please see: https://www.gov.uk/skilled-worker-visa .
We encourage early applications for our roles, as our recruitment process begins as soon as the role is advertised. If we successfully fill the position, this advert may close earlier than planned.
At NEXT, we believe the best work happens when there are no barriers to collaboration. That’s why we are a Google-powered workspace . From your very first day, you’ll be using the full Google Workspace suite; Docs, Drive, and Meet, to stay connected and move fast.
If your previous experience is rooted in other software suites, don’t worry! We’ll point you to a digital Google toolkit the moment you join, packed with handy guides and insider tips to help you transition smoothly and hit the ground running.
#LI-Onsite
You know Next, but did you know we’re a FTSE-100 retail company employing over 44,000 people across the Next group. We’re the UK’s 2nd largest fashion retailer and for Kidswear we’re the market leader. At the last count we have over 450 stores, plus the Next Online and it’s now possible to buy on-line from over 80 countries around the world! So we’ve gone global!
