Assistant Manager - Brand - Footwear

Job Description

Brand Growth and Profitability

1. Maximize sales and profitability of brand stores in line with company targets.
2. Develop sales and budget plans for topline and bottom line; KPIs include sales.
3. Manage stocks and inventory.
4. Develop the brand launch strategy in consultation with the Brand General Manager.
5. Control costs within budgetary guidelines for brand stores.
6. Maximize store productivity through effective resource deployment to ensure complete sell-through as per product, style, and assortment plans.
7. Review feedback from territories on brand acceptance and customer expectations.
8. Ensure adherence to financial plans in sales, markdowns, margins, and inventory levels.
9. Create brand positioning strategies in collaboration with the Marketing team.

Principal / Brand General Manager

1. Participate in recruitment and training of team members.

Brand Merchandise Planning and Product Selection

1. Assess merchandise requirements based on sales data, forecasts, inventory, upcoming events, and replenishment needs.
2. Design merchandise plans including pricing, promotion, and assortment for timely stock availability.
3. Determine buying requirements, formulate buying plans and budgets.
4. Coordinate product selection with buying requirements and research insights.
5. Manage in-season stock balancing, markdowns, and performance analysis across territories.

Brand Image

1. Create and enhance brand awareness for Club Apparel.
2. Coordinate with Retail Operations to gather feedback on retail and brand performance.
3. Develop and implement visual merchandising strategies at stores.

Market and Competition Research

1. Gather market intelligence and analyze trends affecting the business.
2. Research brand acceptance in regions and identify customization needs.
3. Benchmark against competitors and provide qualitative insights.
4. Identify potential sites for new outlets and discuss with relevant teams.
5. Stay updated on latest product, style, and design trends.

Projects & Administration

1. Evaluate new store sites based on trade area, customer base, and merchandising considerations.
2. Coordinate store openings and re-fits with operations and projects teams.
3. Ensure store locations align with brand strategy and opening plans.

Key KPIs

1. Understand the footwear business.
2. Collaborate with external wholesalers and retailers to expand space and sales.
3. Experience in manufacturing is preferred.
4. Work with brand footwear licensing partners.
5. Collaborate with designers to develop product lines for stores, wholesale, and outlets.