Head of Merchandise

Tasmanian Independent Retailers; Turners Marsh; On-site; AUD 150,000 - 210,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

CEO exposure

Job summary

Tasmanian Independent Retailers seeks a seasoned Head of Merchandise to lead statewide category strategy, range, pricing and supplier terms for IGA Tasmania and associated networks. You’ll own merchandising decisions with direct impact on member stores and brand performance.

Reporting to the CEO, you’ll build a capable team, drive promotions and ensure optimal margins, stock flow, and strategic supplier partnerships across the Tasman network.

Qualifications

• Senior-level merchandising experience with range, pricing and supplier terms ownership.
• Proven ability to shape category strategy across a state-wide network.
• Strong data interpretation to drive decisions and promotions.

Responsibilities

• Lead and develop category management and promotions teams across TAS.
• Set product range, pricing and margins for the state network.
• Negotiate terms and rebates with suppliers to optimise COGS.
• Define category strategy backed by market and commodity trends.
• Drive weekly specials and seasonal campaigns for the network.
• Report to CEO and Board on merchandising performance.
• Collaborate with replenishment to ensure stock availability.

Skills

Senior merchandising

Category management

Negotiation

Data analytics

Education

Bachelor's in Business or related

5+ years in senior merchandising

Job description

Where Tasmania's IGA range, pricing and brand decisions start – with you

Location: TIR includes multiple sites in TAS - Head Office (Launceston), IFP & Brighton

Applications close: 30 August 2026

Tasmanian Independent Retailers (TIR) is the retailer-owned co-operative behind IGA Tasmania and Island Fresh Produce (IFP) – supporting our members with everything from supplier trading and advertising to pricing, promotions and business growth. We’re proudly Tasmanian, proudly member-owned, and proudly recognised as a 2025 Employer of Choice.

This is a rare one. Reporting directly to our CEO, the Head of Merchandise is one of the most senior commercial roles in our business – and one of the very few in the state where a single person genuinely shapes the range, pricing, supplier terms and brand for an entire retail network. If you’re a senior merchandising or category leader looking for the next step up and real strategic ownership with a seat at the leadership table–  this is that role.

Not in Tasmania yet? That’s not a barrier – it’s an invitation. This is a genuinely rare opportunity to lead category and merchandising strategy for an entire state, backed by a team, a CEO who wants your expertise, and a lifestyle most mainland cities can’t offer. We’re actively looking beyond Tasmania for the right person, and we’ll make the move worth your while.

What you’ll lead:

• Build and manage strong, sustainable trading relationships across TIR’s entire supplier network
• Lead and develop our Category Management and Promotions team
• Determine product range, everyday pricing and member margin outcomes across the TIR hosted price file system
• Optimise trading terms, rebates and cost of goods outcomes across the TIR supplier portfolio
• Set category strategy, backed by data and a sharp read on market and commodity trends
• Drive promotional activity, including weekly specials and seasonal campaigns.
• Report directly to the CEO and Board on merchandising and category performance
• Partner with SIW/IFP on replenishment, keeping the network well-stocked and efficient

Why this role is worth moving for:

• Genuine strategic ownership – you’ll set the direction, not just execute someone’re category plan
• A direct line to the CEO and a real seat at the leadership table
• The scale and visibility of a state-wide network, with the agility of a team small enough that your decisions actually move fast
• A rare chance to shape a well-loved, proudly Tasmanian brand from the inside
• Flexible working environment, company laptop, and EAP
• Access to St Lukes corporate discount cover, and proudly recognised as a 2025 Employer of Choice

What you’ll bring:

• Tertiary qualification in Business, Merchandising or a related field, and/or 5+ years’ experience in a similar senior role
• Proven experience in merchandising, category management, promotions or retail/wholesale buying
• Strong analytical skills, with the ability to interpret sales data and market trends to inform decisions
• Excellent supplier negotiation and relationship management skills
• Proven ability to develop and execute strategic plans
• Understanding of the grocery wholesale sector and its relationship to the retail business

If you’ve been looking for the role that finally uses everything you’ve built your career toward, we want to hear from you.

Please note: This role may require a police check and a pre-employment medical assessment, including drug and alcohol screening.