GM/DGM (Merchandising)

Requirements

1. Strategic Planning & Leadership

Develop and implement merchandising strategies aligned with company objectives.

Lead cross-functional teams across product development, merchandising, and supply chain.

Set departmental goals (sales, margins, delivery performance) and ensure achievement.

2. Buyer Management & Business Development

Build and maintain strong relationships with key buyers, brands, and buying offices.

Identify and onboard new clients to grow the business.

Negotiate order volumes, prices, delivery schedules, and payment terms with buyers.

3. Costing & Profitability Control

Review and approve product cost sheets prepared by merchandising teams.

Ensure profitability through efficient material sourcing, consumption control, and price negotiations.

Monitor margin performance and make corrective actions where needed.

4. Team Leadership & Development

Supervise senior merchandising managers, mid-level merchandisers, and support staff.

Conduct performance reviews, training, and mentoring to develop the merchandising team.

Foster a culture of accountability, collaboration, and continuous improvement.

5. Order Execution Monitoring

Oversee the entire merchandising process—from sampling to shipment—for key accounts.

Resolve high-level issues related to production delays, quality concerns, and buyer dissatisfaction.

Monitor production plans and ensure alignment with merchandising delivery schedules.

6. Product Development Oversight

Guide seasonal product development plans in collaboration with design and R&D teams.

Review sampling programs and product innovation strategies.

Ensure alignment of development with buyer expectations and market trends.

7. Vendor & Supply Chain Management

Approve vendor selection and evaluate supplier performance.

Ensure raw material sourcing is cost-effective, timely, and of the required quality.

Build strategic partnerships with key fabric and trim suppliers.

8. Compliance & Quality Oversight

Ensure all merchandise meets buyer-specific compliance and quality standards.

Work closely with QA/technical teams and CSR/compliance departments.

Promote sustainable practices in merchandising and sourcing.

9. Reporting & Communication

Report merchandising KPIs, performance metrics, and forecasts to top management.

Analyze market trends, buyer feedback, and sales data to drive decisions.

Present business updates and strategies in internal and buyer meetings.

10. Innovation & Market Insight

Identify new business opportunities, categories, or markets.

Stay ahead of fashion trends, sustainability requirements, and buyer preferences.

Drive digitalization and modern merchandising tools (e.g., PLM systems, ERP).

11. Skills & Competencies Required

Strong leadership and decision-making abilities

In-depth knowledge of garment production and merchandising cycles

Excellent negotiation and communication skills

Strategic thinking with a commercial mindset

Proficiency in merchandising software, costing, and reporting tools