Senior Merchandiser, Socks

Product Development & Merchandising

• Lead end-to-end merchandising process for socks categories.
• Collaborate with design and product teams to develop samples aligned with customer requirements and market trends.
• Review tech packs, provide technical input, and ensure clear communication with factories.

Sourcing & Vendor Management

• Identify, evaluate, and develop reliable sock manufacturers/vendors with competitive pricing, quality, and delivery capabilities.
• Manage supplier relationships to ensure consistent performance in quality, cost, and compliance.
• Conduct cost negotiation and achieve target margins.

Order Execution & Bulk Management

• Oversee order placement, sampling approvals, bulk production, and shipment coordination.
• Monitor production timelines and proactively resolve issues related to delays, quality, or capacity constraints.
• Ensure on-time delivery while maintaining product quality standards.

Quality Assurance

• Collaborate with QA teams to ensure adherence to quality standards throughout production.
• Review inspection reports and implement corrective actions with vendors when necessary.

Market & Trend Analysis

• Stay updated on US retail trends, consumer preferences, and competitive landscape in the socks category.
• Provide insights to support assortment planning and product innovation.

Documentation & Reporting

• Maintain accurate records of orders, costing, approvals, and shipment status.
• Prepare regular merchandising reports and updates for internal stakeholders and customers.

Requirements:

• Bachelor's degree in Textile, Fashion Merchandising, Business, or related field.
• Minimum 5–8 years of merchandising experience, with focused experience in socks or hosiery.
• Proven experience handling US market accounts/clients.
• Strong knowledge of sock construction (knitting techniques, yarn types, finishing processes).
• Hands-on experience in global sourcing, especially from Asia.
• Proficiency in costing, negotiation, and margin management.
• Excellent communication and stakeholder management skills.
• Strong problem-solving and decision-making abilities.
• Ability to manage multiple orders and deadlines in a fast-paced environment.
• High attention to detail and strong organizational skills.
• Fluent in English (written and spoken) & MS Office, especially Excel.