Merchandiser

Next Careers; East Midlands; On-site; GBP 40,000 - 60,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading retail company in the UK is seeking a team player for a full-time role that involves tracking sales performance and formulating range proposals. The ideal candidate will possess great communication and technical merchandising skills and will be responsible for appraising performance and proposing strategic improvements. The position offers various benefits, including discounts on products and financial wellbeing services, and requires energy and enthusiasm along with a passion for trends.

Benefits

25% off most NEXT and partner products

Company performance based bonus

On-site Nursery available

Discounts at Staff Shops

Flexible monthly gym memberships

Early VIP access to sales

Qualifications

• Clear and engaging presentations for internal meetings.
• Technical expertise in sales forecasting and inventory planning.
• Confidence in presenting information and leading discussions.
• Innovative and receptive to feedback and new ideas.
• Passion for products and trends to drive merchandising strategies.

Responsibilities

• Track sales performance and inventory levels.
• Analyze market trends to formulate proposals.
• Prepare presentations to communicate range proposals.
• Appraise performance and propose strategic improvements.
• Ensure accuracy in merchandise systems.

Skills

Great Communication Skills

Solid Technical Merchandising Skills

Energetic and Enthusiastic

Open-Mindedness to New Ways of Working

Enjoyment of the Product/Trend Side of the Role

Job description

Job ID 74119

Team Team Product

Location Location Leicester

Contract Type Contract Type Perm

Job Schedule Job Schedule Full time

Salary Salary competitive

Posting Date Posting Date 30/01/2026

Apply Before Apply Before 06/02/2026

Summary

About the Role: Tracking 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. Formulating Range Structure Proposals: Analyse market trends, consumer preferences, and sales data to identify opportunities and develop range structures that align with the target market. Present proposals outlining assortment plans, pricing strategies, and key product features. Presenting in internal and external Meetings: Prepare visually engaging 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. Appraising Performance and Proposing Strategies: Evaluate previous season performance, departmental metrics, and supplier performance. Identify strengths, weaknesses, opportunities, and threats and propose strategies to address performance gaps and capitalise on opportunities. Maintaining Merchandise Systems: Ensure accuracy in merchandise systems by updating data regularly. Confirm supplier contracts and maintain correct sizing, forecasts, and inventory levels. Conduct regular audits to identify and resolve discrepancies. Responsible for preparing and communicating data and sales information to the brands. Controlling Spending: 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. Guiding the Team and Managing Tasks: Provide clear direction and support to your assistant and trainees, setting expectations and goals. Delegate tasks effectively, providing guidance and feedback as needed. Monitor progress and provide coaching to help trainees and assistants develop skills and confidence.

About You

Great Communication Skills: Prepare clear and engaging presentations for internal meetings and partner discussions. Tailor your communication style to your audience, ensuring information is conveyed effectively and actively listen to feedback and respond thoughtfully to questions or concerns.

Solid Technical Merchandising Skills: Utilise your technical expertise to analyse data, forecast sales, and plan inventory effectively. Ensure accuracy in merchandise systems and contract negotiations to support successful trading relationships. Stay updated on industry best practices and trends to enhance your merchandising capabilities.

Energetic, Enthusiastic, and Self-Confident: Approach your role with energy and enthusiasm, inspiring others with your passion and positivity. Demonstrate confidence in your abilities and decisions, especially when presenting information or leading discussions.

Open-Mindedness to New Ways of Working: Embrace innovation and creativity, actively seeking out new ideas and solutions to challenges. Be receptive to feedback and different perspectives, recognizing that diverse viewpoints can lead to better outcomes. Encourage a culture of continuous improvement and experimentation within your team.

Enjoyment of the Product/Trend Side of the Role: Immerse yourself in the world of products and trends, staying informed about the latest developments and innovations. Use your passion for products and trends to drive creative merchandising strategies and inspire your team. Actively seek out opportunities to collaborate with design teams and brand partners to bring innovative products to market.

#LI-ONSITE

• 25% off most NEXT, MADE*, Lipsy*, Gap* and Victoria's Secret* products (*when purchased through NEXT)
• Company performance based bonus
• On-site Nursery available; OFSTED outstanding in all areas
• 10% off most partner brands & up to 15% off Branded Beauty
• Early VIP access to sale stock
• Access to fantastic discounts at our Staff Shops
• Restaurants with great food at amazing prices
• Access a digital GP and other free health and wellbeing services
• Free on-site parking
• Financial Wellbeing - Save, track and enhance your financial wellbeing
• Apprenticeship - Grow and develop on the job whilst gaining a qualification
• Direct to Work - Discount online and instore, collect your items the next day for free from your place of work or local store
• Support Networks - Access to Network Groups to empower and celebrate each other
• Wellhub - Discounted flexible monthly gym memberships, with apps, PT sessions and more

Conditions apply to all benefits. These benefits are discretionary and subject to change.

We aim to support all candidates during the application process and are happy to provide workplace adjustments when necessary. Should you need support with your application due to a disability or long-term condition, feel free to get in touch with us by email [e-mail] (please include 'Workplace Adjustments' in the subject line), or call us on 0116 284 2486 and leave a voicemail.

Team Overview

This is where ideas become incredible collections. Designers, Buyers, Merchandisers, and Technologists collaborate to create products our customers love. You'll spot global trends, strategically balance our range plans and meticulously test quality so every season feels fresh, inspiring and exceptional.

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You’ve probably heard of NEXT, but did you know about our portfolio? Every brand in our offering brings a distinct story, attitude and community. Spanning contemporary lifestyle brands, established high street names and timeless collections, together they showcase the vibrancy of today’s retail world.

About NEXT

You know Next, but did you know we’re a FTSE-100 retail company employing over 35,000 people across the UK and Ireland. We’re the UK’s 2nd largest fashion retailer and for Kidswear we’re the market leader. At the last count we have over 500 stores, plus the Next Online and it’s now possible to buy on-line from over 70 countries around the world! So we’ve gone global!

Challenges. Opportunities. The future. Let’s take it on at NEXT.