Product Developer and Merchandiser (Mandarin Speaking, £28k, Retail)

Mandarin Recruitment Ltd; Cradley Heath; On-site; GBP 60,000 - 80,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading e-commerce retailer in the UK is seeking a Product Developer and Merchandiser to manage the entire product development cycle. The ideal candidate will have at least 2 years of experience in product development and proficiency in spoken and written English, along with fluency in Mandarin or Cantonese. Responsibilities include overseeing product projects, maintaining production schedules, and liaising with suppliers and factories.

Qualifications

• At least 2 years of experience in product development, sourcing, or merchandising.
• Proven track record of working with manufacturers in the Far East.
• Exceptional organisational and project management capabilities.

Responsibilities

• Oversee and manage multiple product development projects concurrently.
• Maintain production schedules to ensure timely delivery.
• Liaise with suppliers and factories in China and internationally.

Skills

Product development

Project management

Interpersonal skills

Organisational skills

Fluent in Mandarin or Cantonese

Microsoft Excel

Job description

Job Description

We have an exciting opportunity for a Product Developer and Merchandiser role in a UK-based Retail company. It is a successful e-commerce retailer that sells licensed, premium merchandise from well-known brands, including movies, video games, and comic books. The Product Developer will work together with the design group, manage the entire product development cycle, and communicate with suppliers and factories to ensure quality and timely merchandise production. This position entails project management, quality assurance, and logistical coordination.

Job Requirements

• At least 2 years of professional experience in product development, sourcing, or merchandising
• Proven track record of working with manufacturers in the Far East
• Proficiency in both spoken and written English, along with fluency in Mandarin or Cantonese
• Exceptional organisational and project management capabilities
• Strong interpersonal skills with the ability to communicate and negotiate effectively
• Demonstrated ability to manage multiple tasks, deadlines, and shifting priorities
• High level of accuracy and attention to detail
• Advanced proficiency in Microsoft Excel

Job Responsibilities

• Oversee and manage multiple product development projects concurrently
• Maintain production schedules and tracking systems to ensure timely delivery
• Interpret design briefs and convert them into clear, actionable manufacturing specifications
• Liaise daily with suppliers and factories in China and other international locations
• Request and negotiate product cost estimates with vendors
• Evaluate product samples and provide detailed feedback for improvements
• Ensure all products comply with quality, safety, and brand standards
• Prepare and submit licensor approval packages and manage feedback processes
• Coordinate product testing and ensure all compliance documentation is completed as required
• Arrange pre-shipment inspections and conduct quality assurance checks
• Organise logistics and shipping operations for both air and sea freight
• Maintain accurate records of product development and sample documentation
• Manage and update the product sample library
• Represent the company at trade fairs and supplier meetings as needed
• Open to international travel, with a focus on visits to China

About Us

Mandarin Recruitment is a service that helps UK and China businesses & organisations find and source high-quality Mandarin-speaking professionals. We have unparalleled and exclusive channels to the Chinese speaking market, allowing us to be the leading organisation for specialist Mandarin recruitment.