GUCCI Merchandising Manager

SUMMARY This position is to supervise designated team of buyers on selective categories for Gucci China; guide the China buying teams to make decisions on buying products in accordance to the pre-agreed Open-To-Buy amounts among styles, fabrics, functionalities, colors, etc. in order to maximize sales, inventory turn, profitability and brand image. This position is also responsible for monitoring sales performance, inventory levels and providing analysis and recommendations as needed.

ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES include the following: Other duties may be assigned.

• Responsible for merchandise mix and assortment planning in accordance with respective merchandising strategies set by senior management for different Directly Operated Stores (DOS)

• Supervise the China buying teams based in Shanghai to plan for and execute buying activities of all designated categories
• Monitor inventory, delivery and reordering situations to ensure appropriate levels of stock are maintained across all designated categories, and responsible for merchandise allocations to DOS and co-ordination with stores and warehouse for stock replenishment issues
• Monitor sales and sell-through situations and initiate appropriate strategies and tactics to liquidate stocks and boost sales, and take care of all mark-down/mark-up and merchandise related issues for seasonal sale periods
• Work together with Merchandise Planning to understand the Open-To-Buy Plans for the market
• Provide sufficient product training and fashion trend information to the front-line staff
• Foster team building and people development in the buying team
• Partner with Public Relations, Visual Merchandising, Advertising and Store Operations Departments to align merchandising, sales and promotional strategies, and to collect feedback from stores for review and planning of merchandising plans
• Ensure proper communications with all departments, such as Store Operations, Public Relations, Advertising, Visual Merchandising Warehouse, Finance, Training and After Sales Services etc
• Co-ordinate with Categories Managers for merchandise issues such as product needs for the market
• Regularly report to the Managing Directors for sales performance, merchandise mix, inventory situations and important issues, etc.
• Extensive traveling will be required to Italy for buying and domestic for store visits

QUALIFICATIONS

• Degree holder in retail, buying, marketing, fashion, business or relevant subject is preferred
• At least 5 years of relevant merchandising experience in high fashion industry, preferably with focus on certain category
• Possess excellent analytical and leadership skills
• Excellent presentation and interpersonal communication skills
• Forward-looking vision and strong problem solving skills
• Independent, self-motivated and able to work under pressure
• Good PC skills in Microsoft Excel, Word and PowerPoint
• Good command of written and spoken English and Chinese