Senior Merchandiser

JR United Kingdom; Louth; Hybrid; GBP 30,000 - 45,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading company in outdoor gear is seeking its first Merchandiser to develop and execute merchandising strategies. This role is vital for driving sales and optimizing product performance, ideal for someone experienced in the outdoor industry who thrives in a fast-paced environment. You'll be responsible for inventory management, supplier relations, and aligning merchandising with marketing strategies.

Qualifications

• 4+ years experience as a Merchandiser or Buyer within the Outdoor Industry.
• Adept at networking and building relationships with suppliers.
• Proficiency in market trend analysis and stock management tools.

Responsibilities

• Own the merchandising calendar and plan seasonal buys.
• Forecast stock based on historical data and market trends.
• Drive product performance and manage supplier relationships.

Skills

Merchandising

Data analysis

Relationship building

Strategic thinking

Job description

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Location: Remote, Hybrid, and on-site options

Based in the heart of the Lincolnshire Wolds, England, amidst an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, Valley + Peak is your go-to source for premium outdoor gear and expert guidance. We curate only the finest products, prioritising what truly matters: forging enduring memories in the great outdoors.

As an independent, woman-founded and family-run online retailer, we proudly collaborate with exceptional cottage gear makers and renowned outdoor brands, catering to a diverse array of adventurers, including backpackers, hikers, campers, ultralighters, thru-hikers, van-lifers, bikepackers, and adventure bike riders.

We’ve combined innovation, inclusivity and deep gear knowledge to offer a progressive experience for our customers that bridges the gap between online and expert in-store advice. Valley + Peak was the first outdoor gear retailer in the UK to launch a community of diverse and multi-disciplined outdoor ambassadors alongside the launch of the first of its kind digital gear consultations with our gear experts. Our commitment to professionalism and superior quality is matched only by our genuine desire to foster a community of outdoor enthusiasts.

Role Overview

As our first dedicated Merchandiser, you’ll report directly to the Managing Director and take full ownership of the merchandising strategy and its execution at Valley + Peak. You’ll be responsible for planning and managing the flow of stock and cash across our product range, ensuring we invest in the right products, at the right time, and in the right volumes to maximise sales and margin. This is a strategic, hands-on role that sits at the heart of our continuous growth, ideal for someone who thrives in a fast-paced environment, is deeply commercial, and understands how great merchandising can fuel growth.

Key Responsibilities

Reporting to the Managing Director, your responsibilities will include, but not be limited to:

• Own the merchandising calendar: With your set targets and budget, plan seasonal and brand-level buying to align with trading peaks and promotional strategies.
• Forecast and plan stock: Use historical data, trends, and supplier input to build accurate demand forecasts.
• Optimise cashflow and margins: Ensure buying decisions are aligned to sell-through rates, margin contribution, and working capital availability.
• Drive product performance: Continuously evaluate SKU-level performance, manage markdowns, and identify where to reduce or increase investment.
• Range planning: Curate compelling and commercially sound product assortments based on customer needs and performance insights.
• Work with suppliers: Manage supplier relationships, MOQs, lead times, rebates, and collaborative planning.
• Coordinate with marketing: Align merchandising with campaign plans, product launches, and content calendars.
• Develop and maintain systems & reporting: Help develop internal merchandising and forecasting tools and processes.

Experience & Skills

• 4+ years experience as a Merchandiser or Buyer within the Outdoor Industry.
• Ability to develop a small team and help lead buying operations.
• Demonstrated ability in not only excellent merchandising, but also in crafting and implementing effective growth strategies using your skills.
• Adept at networking and relationship building, particularly with suppliers.
• A great understanding of the Outdoor Industry, the outdoor retailer business model, and online retailer operations.
• Proficiency in data analysis & management, pricing, market trend analysis, and use of stock reporting tools to make clear and actionable merchandising decisions.
• Strategic thinker, capable of aligning daily operations with the company's long-term goals.