Merchandising Leader

Industry: Manufacturing 

Job Summary:

The Merchandising Leader will oversee the operational execution of purchase strategies, manage supplier and factory performance, and ensure products meet company specifications while driving efficiency, cost-effectiveness, and sustainability initiatives. This role supports the organizations sourcing, production, and supply chain goals through strong leadership and collaboration with internal teams and suppliers.

MAIN RESPONSIBILITIES:

• Manage, develop, and train Merchandisers, Senior Merchandisers, Costing Engineers, and Garment Technicians for their process and factory base.
• Manage industrialization projects with factories under their responsibility to guarantee stable and reliable processes prior to mass production.
• Manage relationships with Industrial Partners and Key Account Suppliers (KAS).
• Drive overall performance development of the supplier base, maintain long-term relationships, and prepare suppliers for future needs.
• Execute the playbook defined in the Supplier Relationship Management Strategy and Purchasing Policy.
• Ensure product availability at the right time, in the right place, and at the most competitive cost.
• Ensure continuous progress in cost, supply, and service.
• Follow up with suppliers (from crop to garment) on the implementation of the 5 Leaves strategy.
• Work closely with suppliers to ensure alignment with decarbonization goals.
• Supervise product creation by developing samples that comply with technical specifications.
• Be responsible and accountable for business KPIs.
• Implement postponement initiatives and material resource planning in collaboration with Supply Chain Operations (SCO) and Sourcing & Buying.
• Support Supply Chain Operations (SCO) by ensuring availability rates and proactively proposing solutions to market changes.
• Work with suppliers to balance production lines, book and fulfill capacity according to the GSS and Purchase Policy.
• Coach factories on standardized improvement actions across production lines.
• Coach team members on industrialization practices, manufacturing excellence, quality, and company standards.
• Identify risks, propose solutions, and empower suppliers to achieve autonomy while enhancing performance in quality, sustainability, and processes.
• Collaborate with other countries Merchandising Leaders on style allocation for Sourcing Buying Manager selection.
• Identify and source new suppliers in line with the GSS, visit facilities, and ensure smooth onboarding.
• Provide local/regional sourcing and market intelligence (innovative products, fabrics, facilities, etc.).
• Update Sourcing Manager and Country Leader regularly on country development and performance, implementing corrective actions when required.
• Maintain and enforce the highest standards of ethical and social compliance according to company policies and anti-corruption code of conduct.
• Ensure proper distribution and implementation of new norms and procedures to vendors, including training.
• Implement initiatives to increase transparency with suppliers via data exchange (production, traceability, certificates, etc.).
• Work with the fabric team to execute fabric strategy and ensure availability.
• Assist Sourcing Buying Manager in closing claims with suppliers according to company norms.
• Perform other duties, projects, or temporary missions assigned by Leadership.

MAIN REQUIREMENTS:

• Relevant experience (approximately 10 years)
• Strong technical and product development knowledge
• Bachelors or Masters degree in Textile Engineering, Apparel Manufacturing, Industrial Engineering, or related field
• 8–12 years of proven experience in production, manufacturing, or industrial engineering
• Strong experience managing supplier relationships in Asia
• In-depth knowledge of manufacturing processes (cutting, sewing, knitting, molding, assembly)
• Strong understanding of quality control systems (AQL, QC checks, root cause analysis)
• Proficient in product costing and negotiation
• Excellent project management skills
• Fluent in English and local language (Chinese and/or French is a plus)
• Higher Diploma in Textile or University Graduate

Benefits:

1. Seniority
2. Annual Bonus
3. Performance Increment
4. NSSF
5. Medical Health and Life Insurance