Apparel Merchandise and Design Manager at Talented Recruitment Specialists

• A prominent South African retail brand is seeking an Apparel Merchandise Manager to lead the planning, sourcing and execution of imported and locally manufactured apparel ranges for a global outdoor performance and lifestyle brand.
• The role focuses on driving product assortment, inventory, pricing, profitability and overall brand alignment.

Key Responsibilities:
Merchandise Planning & Strategy:

• Develop seasonal merchandise plans aligned with global brand direction and local market needs
• Build balanced assortments across categories (performance running, outdoor and lifestyle)
• Translate global product collections into commercially viable local assortments
• Collaborate with global brand partners on product selection, forecasting and local range approval

Product Lifecycle Management:

• Accountability for the end-to-end product lifecycle
• Manage product from concept/ selection through to end of life
• Monitor product performance and implement in-season trading actions when required
• Lead markdown, replenishment and exit strategies
• Ensure alignment between imported and locally manufactured ranges

Local Manufacturing/ Sourcing & Range Development:

• Take full ownership of range development and product creation
• A working understanding of design, fit and construction
• Design, sourcing, and work with production teams to develop locally manufactured apparel and accessories
• Identify gaps in global ranges and create locally relevant products
• Ensure local product meets the brand standards, quality and cost/ RSP targets
• Manage timelines, from range conceptualization through to bulk production

Demand Planning & Inventory Management:

• Forecast demand and manage OTB budgets for brand stores
• Optimize inventory levels across channels (wholesale, retail & e-commerce)
• Track sell through, stock turn and aging inventory
• Work closely with supply chain to ensure timely delivery

Pricing & Profitability:

• Set pricing strategies aligned with brand positioning and local market dynamics
• Monitor margins across imported and locally produced product
• Identify opportunities to improve profitability through mix, sourcing and cost control

Cross- Functional Collaboration:

• Work closely with marketing on campaign alignment and product launches
• Partner with retail teams to select range and ensure effective in-store execution
• Collaborate with e-commerce on assortment and online sales strategy
• Liase with senior management on budgets, forecasts and margin tracking

Brand & Market Alignment:

• Ensure all product aligns with global brand identity and guidelines
• Adapt global trends to meet local consumer preferences
• Monitor competitor activity and market trends in performance and lifestyle apparel

Key Performance Indicators (KPIs):

• Sales growth and sell through rates
• Gross margin and profitability
• Stock turn and inventory health
• Forecast accuracy
• On-time delivery (imported and local production)
• Success and growth of locally developed product ranges

Requirements: 

• Bachelor’s degree in Fashion Merchandising, Business, Retail or related field
• Good understanding of design, patterns and product fit will be beneficial
• 5-8 years’ experience in apparel merchandising (sport/ lifestyle preferred)
• Experience working with international brands or licensors
• Strong understanding of local manufacturing/ sourcing processes
• Proven track record in planning, forecasting and trading
• Strong analytical and numerical skills
• Commercial acumen and trend awareness
• Excellent planning and organizational skills
• Ability to balance global brand requirements with local market needs
• Clear communication and stake holder management skills
• Proficiency in merchandising systems and Excel