Senior Merchandiser

SUMMARY:
Senior Merchandiser / Product Sourcing & Sales Specialist

We are seeking a dynamic, commercially driven Senior Merchandiser to join a fast-paced import and wholesale business supplying major retail chains. The successful candidate will be responsible for sourcing trend-driven footwear products internationally, developing strong retailer relationships, managing key retail accounts, and driving sales growth within allocated product categories.

POSITION INFO:
Key Responsibilities Research, source and develop new footwear products from international suppliers, primarily in China Identify emerging trends and introduce innovative, commercially viable products to retail customers. Manage and grow allocated product categories and retail accounts. Drive sales growth by proactively presenting new ranges and opportunities to buyers. Negotiate and work within required pricing and margin parameters. Build and maintain strong, professional relationships with retail buyers and suppliers. Prepare product presentations, quotations and category proposals. Analyse category performance, sales history and pricing structures to identify growth opportunities. Travel internationally for sourcing trips and trade fairs when required. Ensure excellent administration, organisation and follow-through on all projects and orders. Candidate Profile The ideal candidate will be: Commercially minded, ambitious and sales-driven. Passionate about product, trends, retail and sourcing. Highly organised with strong administrative and planning skills. Energetic, proactive and able to work independently. Strong in relationship management and confident in dealing with buyers and suppliers. Able to thrive in a high-performance, target-driven environment. Detail-oriented with strong analytical and problem-solving abilities. Prepared to travel internationally to factories and trade fairs. Key Performance Areas Sales growth within allocated categories and accounts. Product innovation and successful introduction of new ranges. Margin management. Buyer relationship management and service excellence. Effective category management and strategic planning. Accountability for category performance and achievement of targets. Preferred Experience Previous experience in merchandising, sourcing, importing or wholesale. Footwear merchandising experience would be highly advantageous; however, candidates from accessories, apparel\/clothing or homeware with strong merchandising and sourcing experience are encouraged to apply. Experience working with major retail chains. Strong understanding of product development, pricing and margin management. Exposure to international sourcing and trade fairs. IMPORTANT NOTICE By applying to this advert you hereby acknowledge that you have read and accept the following Protection of Personal Information ACT (POPIA) disclaimer: I hereby consent for Talented Recruitment to process my personal information as part of the recruitment process. Talented Recruitment shall take all reasonable measures to protect the personal information of applicants and for the purpose of this disclaimer \"personal information\" shall be defined as detailed in the Protection of Personal Information Act, Act 4 of 2013 (\"POPIA\").