Head of Merchandising

We are representing our client, a well-established FMCG retailer, to look for a dynamic and commercially driven Head of Merchandising to lead category strategy, trading performance and omnichannel growth across the FMCG retail business. This leadership role is responsible for delivering profitable and customer-focused product assortments, driving category expansion, strengthening supplier partnerships and accelerating e-commerce growth across categories.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead the overall category management and strategy to deliver sales growth, profitability and market share expansion across FMCG categories.
• Develop balanced, commercially compelling and customer-centric product assortments across retail and e-commerce channels.
• Establish and manage strategic relationships with key suppliers to develop new programs that drive category differentiation and build customer value.
• Lead commercial negotiations with suppliers on assortment, promotions, exclusivity, and other income based on the approved programs and activities.
• Drive e-commerce category performance by optimizing online assortment, improving product availability and growing online sales contribution.
• Identify and implement strategic business development initiatives that strengthen category performance.
• Collaborate with Marketing and CRM teams to set strategic category priorities, ensure effectiveness of plans and strengthen member participation.
• Partner with Operations teams to ensure strong in-store execution, merchandising excellence and alignment of category priorities.
• Work with Internal Audit, Loss Prevention and Sales Operations teams to reduce shrinkage.
• Ensure compliance with company policies, regulatory requirements and relevant government licensing standards.
• Lead, coach and develop ahigh-performing team.

Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree in Business, Marketing, Retail Management or a related discipline.
• Proven leadership experience in Category Management, Trading, Buying or Commercial functions within FMCG retail, beauty, health & wellness or consumer goods industries.
• Strong commercial acumen with a track record of delivering sales growth and profitability.
• Extensive experience in supplier management, negotiations and strategic partnership development.
• Strong understanding of omnichannel retailing and e-commerce category management.
• Excellent analytical and numerical skills with the ability to interpret market data and consumer trends.
• Strong stakeholder management, communication and interpersonal skills.
• Strategic thinker with the agility to thrive in a fast-paced and evolving retail environment.
• Passionate about customer experience, innovation and market trends.
• Sound in-depth knowledge of the market, brand positioning and trends.
• An understanding of current economic situation and impacts of potential threats and competitors.