Merchandise Planning & Buying Manager

Company Overview:

Scentiment is a leading player in the direct to consumer fragrance industry, we are on a mission to democratize luxury fragrances for the masses. With a commitment to delivering exceptional customer experiences, we have established ourselves as a trusted brand known for quality and reliability.

Job Summary:

The Merchandise Planning & Buying Manager will be responsible for developing and executing a comprehensive merchandising strategy that aligns with the company's business objectives. This includes planning and managing product assortment, sourcing new products and vendors, negotiating with vendors, managing logistics, analyzing sales trends, and creating internal Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) to ensure seamless operations across the warehouse and customer service teams.

Key Responsibilities:

1. Merchandising Strategy:

• Develop and execute a comprehensive merchandising strategy that aligns with the company's business objectives.
• Conduct market research and analyze sales trends to identify opportunities for growth.
• Collaborate with the CEO and other stakeholders to develop and implement business plans.

2. Product Assortment Planning:

• Plan and manage product assortment, including fragrance selection, pricing, and inventory levels.
• Collaborate with vendors to negotiate product offerings, pricing, and delivery terms.
• Analyze sales trends and customer feedback to optimize product assortment.

3. Planning:

• Develop and manage sales forecasts, inventory plans, and open-to-buy budgets to ensure alignment with merchandising strategies and business objectives.

4. Sourcing:

• Identify and develop relationships with new vendors and suppliers.
• Negotiate pricing, delivery terms, and product offerings with vendors.
• Collaborate with the logistics team to ensure timely and efficient delivery of products.

5. Vendor Negotiations:

• Negotiate with vendors to secure favorable pricing, terms, and delivery schedules.
• Develop and maintain strong relationships with vendors to ensure timely and efficient delivery of products.

6. Logistics and Inventory Management:

• Manage logistics and inventory management processes to ensure efficient and timely delivery of products.
• Collaborate with the logistics team to optimize inventory levels, reduce stockouts, and minimize waste.

7. Sales Analysis and Reporting:

•  Analyze sales trends and customer feedback to identify opportunities for growth and improvement.
•  Develop and present regular sales reports to the CEO and other stakeholders.

8. Internal Process Improvement:

• Create and implement internal Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) to ensure seamless operations across the warehouse and customer service teams.
•  Collaborate with cross-functional teams to identify areas for process improvement and implement changes.

9. Team Management:

• Lead and manage a team of merchandising professionals, including training, development, and performance management.
• Collaborate with other departments, including marketing, sales, and logistics, to ensure alignment and effective communication.

Requirements:

1. Education:

• Bachelor's degree in Business, Finance, Supply Chain management or a related field.

2. Experience:

• Minimum 5 years of experience in merchandising, buying, or a related field.
• Proven track record of success in developing and executing merchandising strategies.

3. Skills:

• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills.
• Excellent communication and negotiation skills.
• Ability to work effectively in a fast-paced environment.
• Strong leadership and team management skills.

4. Knowledge:

• Understands the complexities of production and raw materials
• Strong knowledge of the fragrance industry and market trends.
• Familiarity with e-commerce platforms and logistics management.

Nice to Have:

Experience:

• Experience working with fragrance vendors and suppliers.
• Familiarity with inventory management software and logistics management systems.