This is an individual contributor role focused on driving sustainable and profitable growth for a major lifestyle and footwear brand's wholesale division. You will be responsible for managing key accounts, optimizing sales performance (both sell-in and sell-through), and building long-term partnerships with retail stakeholders. The role requires a blend of commercial strategy, product category expertise, and the ability to influence others.
Key Responsibilities
Account Management & Growth
- Target Achievement: Manage assigned accounts to hit specific revenue, profit margin, and sell-through goals.
- Strategic Planning: Create annual and seasonal business plans that include inventory strategies and purchase forecasts.
- Sales Analysis: Monitor sales data and product life cycles to identify risks and suggest fixes for slow-moving stock.
- Expansion: Actively seek out new wholesale opportunities that align with the brand’s priorities.
Operational Excellence
- Product Presentations: Prepare and lead seasonal presentations to pitch new collections to buyers.
- Inventory Coordination: Collaborate with merchandising and planning teams to ensure accurate stock replenishment.
- Retail Monitoring: Track weekly retail performance and provide insights based on consumer trends and competitor activity.
Collaboration & Reporting
- Internal Alignment: Work with marketing, finance, and retail operations to ensure the marketplace needs match the brand’s direction.
- Performance Reviews: Deliver timely business reviews and detailed reports on inventory health and category profitability.
Requirements
- Education: A Bachelor’s Degree in Business, Marketing, or a related field.
- Professional Background: 3 to 5 years of experience in wholesale or key account management, specifically within the fashion, footwear, or sports retail industries.
- Proven Results: A documented history of managing major retail partners and delivering business growth.
- Analytical Proficiency: Deep understanding of retail math, including Open-to-Buy (OTB) cycles, stock turn, and margin structures.
- Negotiation: Strong ability to influence and negotiate with professional buyers and internal stakeholders.
- Communication: Skilled at delivering persuasive business presentations and solving complex account challenges.