Merchandiser

Gulf Marketing Group (GMG Group); Dubai; On-site; AED 60,000 - 120,000; Full time

Job summary

A global well-being company is seeking an experienced Merchandiser for its Sports Division in Dubai. The role involves managing product assortments, inventory monitoring, and collaborating with cross-functional teams to enhance category performance. Candidates should have a Bachelor's degree in business or Retail Management, along with 3-5 years of relevant experience, particularly in the sports retail industry. Strong analytical skills, proficiency in tools like MS Excel, and excellent communication skills are essential for success in this role.

Qualifications

• 3-5 years of experience in merchandising roles, preferably in sports retail.
• Proven experience in inventory management and assortment planning.

Responsibilities

• Manage product assortments aligned with trends and business objectives.
• Monitor stock levels and coordinate with supply chain teams.
• Collaborate with the buying team to meet market demands.
• Generate reports on performance, including sales and stock movement.
• Analyze market trends and customer behavior.
• Work with internal teams for effective merchandising execution.

Skills

Strong understanding of merchandising principles

Inventory control

Sales forecasting

Excellent communication skills

Strong organizational skills

Education

Bachelor's degree in business or Retail Management

Tools

MS Excel

PowerPoint

Retail planning systems

Inventory management systems

Business intelligence tools

Job description

Who we are

GMG is a global well-being company retailing, distributing, and manufacturing a portfolio of leading international and home-grown brands across sport, everyday goods, health and beauty, properties, and logistics sectors.

Under the ownership and management of the Baker family for over 45 years, GMG is a valued partner of choice for the world's most successful and respected brands in the well-being sector. Working across the Middle East, North Africa, and Asia, GMG has introduced more than 120 brands across 12 countries. These include notable home-grown brands such as Sun & Sand Sports, Dropkick, Supercare Pharmacy, Farm Fresh, and Klassic, and international brands like Nike, Columbia, Converse, Timberland, Vans, Mama Sita's, and McCain.

About the Role

GMG is looking for an experienced Merchandiser to join our Sports Division. The Merchandiser will be responsible for supporting and executing merchandising strategies, managing product assortments, and optimizing inventory levels across key categories. This role requires close collaboration with cross-functional teams including buying, planning, supply chain, and sales to drive category performance and enhance customer experience.

Key Responsibilities

• Manage Product Assortments: Plan, organize, and maintain product assortments to ensure alignment with seasonal trends, customer preferences, and overall business objectives. Make data-driven decisions to optimize variety, pricing, and placement of products across channels.

• Inventory Monitoring and Coordination: Regularly track stock levels, anticipate demand fluctuations, and work closely with supply chain teams to prevent both stockouts and overstock situations. Ensure inventory is managed efficiently to maximize sales and minimize excess.

• Collaboration with Buying Team: Partner with the buying team to select products that meet market demands and customer expectations. Provide insights on product performance, identify gaps in assortments, and support timely delivery and replenishment strategies.

• Reporting and Performance Analysis: Generate and maintain detailed reports on merchandising performance, including sales trends, stock movement, and assortment effectiveness. Use these insights to recommend improvements and drive decision-making.

• Market and Customer Insights: Continuously analyze market trends, competitor activity, and customer behavior to guide product selection, pricing strategies, and promotional activities. Ensure that merchandising strategies align with changing market demands.

• Cross-Functional Collaboration: Work effectively with internal teams such as marketing, sales, and operations, as well as external partners, to ensure smooth execution of merchandising plans. Maintain clear communication and foster strong working relationships across the organization.

Qualifications & Skills

Education

• Bachelor's degree in business, Retail Management, or a related field.

Experience

• 3-5 years of experience in merchandising roles, preferably within the sports retail or apparel industry.

• Proven experience in inventory management and assortment planning.

Technical Skills

• Proficiency in MS Excel and PowerPoint for reporting and analysis.

• Experience using retail planning and inventory management systems.

• Strong analytical mindset and comfort working with data-driven insights.

• Familiarity with business intelligence tools is an advantage.

Soft Skills

• Strong understanding of merchandising principles, inventory control, and sales forecasting.

• Ability to balance strategic thinking with hands-on execution.

• Excellent communication and collaboration skills, with the ability to present insights clearly to stakeholders.

• Strong organizational skills and ability to manage multiple priorities in a fast-paced retail environment.