Merchandise Manager - Design and Manufacturing (Sports)

TFG (The Foschini Group); Wes-Kaap; On-site; ZAR 600,000 - 800,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading retail company in South Africa is seeking a Merchandise Manager to oversee the Design & Merchandise team. The ideal candidate will have over 10 years of experience in fashion apparel design and manufacturing, strong leadership skills, and the ability to manage a supply chain effectively. This role is crucial for optimizing profitability and aligning with the company's strategic objectives.

Qualifications

• At least 10 years’ experience in the design and manufacturing of apparel, preferably ladies fashion.
• Experience managing a team across various functions.
• Experience dealing directly with major fashion retailers within the South African market.
• Knowledge of performance management and team conduct.
• Expertise in inventory planning and forecasting to optimize stock levels.
• Strong negotiation and supplier management skills.

Responsibilities

• Lead the Design & Merchandise teams for the specific brand.
• Manage the supply chain from concept to delivery.
• Ensure efficiency of critical path management.
• Maintain customer relationships with the retail brand.
• Lead and inspire the team to design, produce, and deliver quality products.

Skills

Strong communication and leadership skills

Proficiency in MS Excel

Good planning and organizational skills

Highly analytical

Commercial awareness

Job description

Job Description

An exciting position has arisen within the Sports Design Division for a Merchandise Manager. The successful candidate must have at least 10 years’ experience in the design and manufacturing of fashion apparel. This person is accountable for managing the Design & Merchandise team effectively, optimizing the brand’s profitability and sales targets in line with TFG Design and Manufacturing’s strategic objectives, and coaching the team to drive financial success for TFG.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead the Design & Merchandise teams for the specific brand, providing strategic guidance and ensuring business processes and structure align with customer and business objectives.
• Manage the supply chain from concept to delivery, including trend analysis, design and development, merchandising, raw material management, pre-production capacity planning, and manufacturing.
• Ensure the efficiency of critical path management through influence and guidance.
• Maintain customer relationships with the retail brand and drive the strategic direction of the brand in line with TFG Design and Manufacturing objectives.
• Lead and inspire the team to design, produce, and deliver quality products that exceed customer expectations within budget.

Qualifications And Experience

• At least 10 years’ experience in the design and manufacturing of apparel, preferably ladies fashion.
• Experience managing a team across various functions.
• Experience dealing directly with major fashion retailers within the South African market.
• Knowledge of performance management and team conduct.
• Expertise in inventory planning and forecasting to optimize stock levels.
• Strong negotiation and supplier management skills, including liaising with vendors, manufacturers, and stakeholders.
• Commercial acumen with understanding of profitability, pricing strategies, and market dynamics.

Skills

• Strong communication and leadership skills.
• Proficiency in MS Excel.
• Good planning and organizational skills.
• Highly analytical.
• Commercial awareness.

Behaviours

• Effective communication.
• Ability to motivate and engage teams.
• Results-driven with focus on achieving goals.
• Accountability and responsibility.
• Interpersonal skills and rapport building.
• Conflict management.
• Planning and alignment with organizational goals.
• Valuing diversity and inclusion.

Preference will be given to candidates from designated groups as per the Employment Equity Act.

About Us

TFG is a diversified retail portfolio of 34 brands, committed to inspiring customers to live their best lives. We aim to create remarkable omnichannel experiences and are dedicated to growth and impact across the industry. Join us to explore opportunities and be part of a purpose-led business making a difference.