Senior Softs Merchandiser

Talented Recruitment; Durban; On-site; ZAR 400 000 - 600 000; Full time

Job summary

A global homeware company is seeking an experienced Senior Softs Merchandiser to join their Durban team. The role involves leading supplier negotiations, managing the product development cycle for softs products, and ensuring market alignment. Ideal candidates have over 5 years of experience in merchandising, particularly in homeware. Strong communication and negotiation skills are essential. This position also offers opportunities to drive profitability while fostering supplier and customer relationships.

Qualifications

• 5+ years experience in retail, import, or wholesale merchandising.
• Experience in homeware and soft furnishings is advantageous.
• Knowledge of retail/wholesale supply chain operations is required.

Responsibilities

• Lead supplier negotiations and manage the full product development cycle.
• Analyze market trends and customer preferences for informed buying decisions.
• Monitor inventory levels and ensure timely stock replenishment.
• Foster strong relationships with suppliers and customers.

Skills

Customer service

Analytical skills

Negotiation

Communication

Planning

Time management

Attention to detail

Education

Matric qualification

Relevant tertiary qualification in merchandising or retail management

Tools

Microsoft Office Suite

Job description

SUMMARY

An established global homeware company is seeking an experienced and dynamic Senior Softs Merchandiser to join their Durban team.

This key role involves developing and sourcing product ranges that align with customer preferences while driving profitability, sustainability, and business growth.

POSITION INFO

The successful candidate will lead supplier negotiations, analyse market trends, and manage the full product development cycle from concept to final delivery with a strong focus on softs products.

Duties and responsibilities (Specialising in softs products)

• Deliver exceptional customer service by leading the development of innovative and trend-setting products from initial design concepts to finished goods ensuring they meet customer specifications.
• Analyse market trends and customer preferences to make informed buying decisions.
• Stay ahead of market shifts by attending trade shows. Conducting seasonal reviews and analysing customer preferences and sales performance.
• Conduct regular reviews of product performance and adjust buying strategies accordingly to drive sales growth through strategic product positioning.
• Source and select products to meet customer needs while achieving quality, price points and delivery timelines.
• Build and maintain strong relationships with suppliers, negotiating pricing, terms and conditions to ensure product availability.
• Ensure suppliers are briefed correctly on product quality, packaging and delivery specifications – prevent reworks, discounts and cancellations.
• Oversee the orderbook management ensuring accuracy in the order details and timeous order placements.
• Monitor inventory levels and ensure timely replenishment of stock.
• Foster and maintain strong relationships with customers, suppliers and internal teams.
• Maintain accurate records of purchases, pricing, and other important data.
• Ensure compliance with all relevant regulations and company policies.

Requirements

• Matric qualification is essential.
• Relevant tertiary qualification in merchandising, retail management, or a related field.
• A seasoned Merchandiser professional with 5+ years of experience in retail, import, or wholesale merchandising.
• Experience in homeware and soft furnishings is advantageous.
• Knowledge of retail / wholesale supply chain operations.
• A charismatic communicator who thrives in a collaborative environment.
• Tech-savvy, particularly with Microsoft Office Suite.
• Adept at planning and execution.
• Someone who brings positivity, adaptability, and a keen eye for detail.
• Deep market insight, keen on product knowledge and pricing strategies.
• Expertise in negotiation, time management, and interpersonal interactions.

Should you not receive a response within the next 2 weeks,