Visual Merchandise Specialist - Markham at TFG (The Foschini Group)

Job Description

• The Visual Merchandise Specialist III is responsible for leading the interpretation of buying strategies into store layouts, ensuring effective communication of visual presentations, and managing in-store campaign collateral. They also attend shop fitting meetings and ensure visuals and equipment are in place for new and revamped stores. Additionally, they facilitate feedback processes for store openings and revamps.

Responsibilities

• Work closely with the Store Design department with regards to:
• Layout plan per department
• Equipment layout plan
• Visual detail for stores (e.g. paint, wallpaper, branding, etc.)
• New store requirements communicated to Shopfitting and VM RVMs to ensure effective launch of new and revamped stores (hardware)
• All new equipment prototyped and tested (hardware)
• Co-ordinating and actioning queries from Field & VM (hardware)
• Consistently produce the best visual solutions in conjunction with Creative Co-ordinators; brainstorm innovative concepts for windows and in-store displays
• Develop visual equipment and props in alignment with business needs and strategy
• Manage execution of sourcing and distribution of props
• Identify and interpret fashion trends and integrate creative proposals aligned to the strategic plan and brand direction
• Collaborate with Production Co-ordinator to determine correct production quantities and store breakdown per visual element
• Provide general input and administrative support within the department
• Maintain documentation and control of Visual Display samples and stock at warehouse (hardware)
• Build and maintain strong relationships with suppliers to ensure quality, service, and cost efficiency
• Manage expenses to meet budgets related to marketing promotions and in-store visual requirements
• Improve cost effectiveness by obtaining comparative quotations and negotiating supplier pricing to ensure best quality at best price
• Maintain accurate record keeping, invoice authorisation, and administration processes
• Ensure cost centre budgets and expenditure are consistently reviewed and balanced
• Coordinate monthly handbook process, including execution and production (marketing updates included)
• Compile and update monthly window displays for marketing updates
• Assist VM Manager with execution and production of display manuals and new concepts
• Prepare and coordinate mock-ups to facilitate communication and sign-off for promotional setups
• Execute store requests related to hardware requirements
• Maintain high standards of internal service delivery
• Continuously identify and implement ways to improve service levels
• Ensure brand image and identity consistency across all visual interfaces with internal and external stakeholders
• Train VM teams and in-store VM staff in conjunction with the VM Manager
• Ensure display styles align with seasonal merchandise, retail themes, and are updated and refined seasonally
• Communicate display standards and principles through workshops

Qualifications

• A Marketing Diploma or Degree would count in your favour
• 5+ years Experience as a Visual Merchandiser/Coordinator
• Leadership & Management skills – proven track record managing direct reports

Skills:

• Ensure efficient use of Adobe creative suite
• Proficient in Yoobic platform

Behaviours:

• Business Insight - applies market and business insights in order to drive organisational objectives
• Communicates Effectively - conveys information and communicates ideas in a clear, concise and impactful manner
• Ensures Accountability - takes accountability and ensures others are held to account on agreed upon performance targets
• Manages Complexity - interprets and simplifies complex and contradictory information when resolving organisational problems
• Plans and Aligns - develops plans and prioritises initiatives that align to the organisational goals and objectives