Merchandiser - Preston

On behalf of our client, a well-established fabrics company, we are seeking a talented Merchandiser to join their team. This is a fantastic opportunity for an individual with strong analytical skills and a proactive approach to excel in a fast-paced, hybrid working environment.

Position Details:

• Job Type: Full-Time (37.5 hours/week)
• Location: Preston - hybrid working with a minimum of 2 office days per week
• Hours: Monday-Thursday: 8:30 am - 4:45 pm; Friday: 8:30 am - 3:30 pm
• Salary: £28,000 - £32,000 per annum, depending on experience

The Role:
Reporting to the Head of Customer Operations, this role is pivotal in supporting key retail customers and managing specific areas of responsibility. It requires strong organizational skills, the ability to work under pressure, and excellent relationship-building capabilities with internal and external stakeholders.

Key Responsibilities:

• Producing and managing comprehensive internal and customer-facing reports, often handling large data sets in Excel.
• Building efficient reports and processes to improve operations.
• Forecasting demand and managing stock to maintain a 98% availability rate.
• Coordinating purchasing activities for new products and replenishments, considering lead times and MOQs.
• Overseeing and managing the critical path for orders, ensuring timely delivery.
• Completing customer product data tasks, including new line forms and barcode setups.
• Keeping customers informed of updates on stock levels, availability, and critical path changes.
• Liaising with national account managers, quality control, warehouse teams, suppliers, and customers.
• Raising purchase orders and maintaining supplier relationships, particularly with Far East and European partners.
• Handling customer stock inquiries and supporting direct-to-consumer orders.
• Reviewing supplier performance through order status reports and driving improvements.
• Implementing sustainable packaging measures in line with updated guidelines.
• Navigating customer portals to upload and retrieve product information.
• Supporting the Head of Customer Operations and participating in store and customer visits as required.

The Ideal Candidate:
We're looking for a candidate with strong analytical abilities, excellent organizational skills, and a customer-centric mindset. The successful applicant will demonstrate the following:

• Essential Skills:

  • Advanced proficiency in Microsoft Excel (e.g., pivot tables, lookups, macros).
  • Knowledge of demand planning and inventory management.
  • GCSE Maths and English (Grade B or above).
  • Proven organizational and problem-solving skills.
  • Excellent verbal and written communication skills.
  • Experience working with large data sets and producing actionable insights.
  • Full UK driving license and access to a vehicle.

• Desirable Skills:

  • A-level Maths (Grade C or above) or a degree in a supply chain-related discipline.
  • Familiarity with the textiles industry and Asia-based supply chains.
  • Experience working with or supplying large national retailers.
  • Working knowledge of Epicor software.

Why Join This Team?
Our client offers a supportive and rewarding work environment with excellent benefits, including:

• A competitive salary of £28,000 - £32,000 per annum, depending on experience
• Early Friday finishes
• 22 days of annual leave (increasing with tenure) plus bank holidays
• Pension scheme
• Childcare vouchers
• Company sick pay
• Voluntary staff savings scheme
• Free on-site parking
• Death in service benefit
• Staff awards and regular social events

If you're a driven professional with a passion for supply chain or merchandising, this role offers a brilliant platform to showcase your skills and grow your career.