Manager, Merchandising (Edutainment) - 1 Year Contract

Mandai Wildlife Group; Singapore; On-site; SGD 60,000 - 80,000; Full time

Job summary

A conservation-focused organization in Singapore is seeking a dynamic Merchandising Manager to lead the development of merchandise under the Ranger Buddies brand. The role encompasses product development, supplier management, and ensuring alignment with conservation and sustainability goals. Candidates should have 5-7 years of experience in supply chain or merchandising, along with strong project management and negotiation skills. This position offers an exciting opportunity to blend creativity with operational execution.

Qualifications

• 5-7 years of experience in merchandising, supply chain, or product development.
• Familiarity with manufacturing methods and sustainability considerations.
• Experience managing suppliers and bringing products from concept to market.

Responsibilities

• Drive the design-to-production process for Ranger Buddies merchandise.
• Translate creative ideas into manufacturable products.
• Manage production timelines, inventory, and quality control.
• Collaborate with internal teams to bring merchandise concepts to life.

Skills

Supply chain knowledge

Project management

Supplier negotiation

Interpersonal skills

Problem-solving

Creativity

Education

Degree in Supply Chain, Business, Engineering, Product Design, or related field

Job description

Mandai X, the growth accelerator arm of Mandai Wildlife Group, seeks an experienced and dynamic Merchandising Manager to lead the development and execution of merchandise under the Ranger Buddies brand. The role focuses on product development, supplier management, and the creation of merchandise that resonates with children and families while supporting our mission of conservation and sustainability. The successful candidate will bring supply chain know-how, flexibility in problem‑solving, and the ability to balance creative ambitions with manufacturing realities.

Key Responsibilities

• Drive the design‑to‑production process for Ranger Buddies merchandise, ensuring products are engaging, safe, and aligned with brand values.
• Translate creative ideas into manufacturable products, balancing innovation, feasibility, cost, and sustainability.
• Apply technical/engineering know-how to evaluate materials, construction, and production methods to ensure durability and quality.
• Identify, assess, and negotiate with suppliers and manufacturers, ensuring alignment on quality, cost, and timelines.
• Build and maintain strong relationships with vendors globally to ensure agility in production.
• Manage production timelines, inventory, and quality control, making swift adjustments when last‑minute changes occur.
• Collaborate with internal teams (design, marketing, sales) to bring merchandise concepts to life.
• Balance diverse perspectives, knowing when to accommodate and when to push back, ensuring product development stays on track.
• Serve as a mediator between creative ambitions and operational realities.
• Support licensed merchandise initiatives, ensuring compliance with brand/IP guidelines.
• Work with licensing partners to develop products that uphold Ranger Buddies’ educational and conservation mission.
• Manage merchandising budgets, cost structures, and supplier contracts.
• Ensure cost efficiency without compromising quality or brand standards.
• Partner with finance teams to track spend, margins, and overall merchandise profitability.

Requirements

• Degree in Supply Chain, Business, Engineering, Product Design, or a related field.
• Strong knowledge of supply chain and product development processes.
• Familiarity with manufacturing methods, materials, and sustainability considerations.
• Excellent project management and organisational skills with the ability to handle multiple priorities.
• Strong interpersonal and negotiation skills to manage internal and external stakeholders.
• 5—7 years of experience in merchandising, supply chain, or product development, ideally in consumer products, retail, or children’s merchandise.
• Proven experience managing suppliers and manufacturers, with a strong track record of bringing products from concept to market.
• Experience in startups, scale‑ups, or early‑stage ventures: comfortable working with limited resources and incomplete information.
• Able to pivot quickly when plans change, while still driving progress.
• Hands‑on problem solver who is as comfortable in a supplier meeting as in a brainstorming session.
• Resilient in fast‑changing environments, balancing creative demands with practical execution.
• Exposure to licensed merchandise development and compliance processes is a strong advantage.
• Experience balancing creative design ambitions with operational execution.
• Passion for children's products, edutainment, or sustainability is highly desirable.
• Global or cross‑cultural experience in merchandising and supplier management is a plus.