Merchandiser

River Island

. Develop the department and category strategy for a multiproduct area .

Posted 10/22/2026full-timeLondon • United KingdomMid-LevelSeniorWebsite

Core Competencies

Role fit

Core Competencies

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Demonstrates expertise in developing and executing category strategies to drive sales and margin growth across multiple channels. Proven ability to analyze market data, manage teams, and foster cross-divisional relationships while maintaining a strong focus on sustainability and operational efficiency.

Highest-signal resume keywords

Sales And Margin Target AchievementOmni-Channel Business ExperienceAnalytical SkillsPeople Management And DevelopmentStrategic Planning And Execution

ATS Keywords

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Applicant Tracking System Keywords

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Hard Skills

Category Strategy DevelopmentSales AnalysisFinancial PlanningStock ManagementSourcing StrategiesProduct Delivery ManagementMarket Data AnalysisPerformance TrackingNew Product DevelopmentMarkdown Management

Soft Skills

Communication SkillsInterpersonal SkillsCoaching And MentoringAttention To DetailOrganizational Skills

Industry Keywords

MerchandisingOmni-Channel RetailCross-Divisional CollaborationSustainability CommitmentsCustomer Engagement

About the role

Key responsibilities & impact

Develop the department and category strategy for a multiproduct area
Grow sales and profit through planning and trading across all channels
Analyse current and past performance and market data to identify business opportunities
Create a forward strategy with the Buyer to deliver brand briefs and operating plans
Propose adjustments to financial plans, OTB and on-order commitments to optimise margin and sales by channel
Deliver an option framework for a balanced range by channel
Control stock within planned levels and work within markdown targets
Review commitments by size to maximise sales through availability
Plan sourcing strategies that reduce costs and grow margin while supporting sustainability commitments
Manage the department critical path with the Buyer to ensure timely product delivery
Plan and deliver stock distribution across all channels
Identify wholesale opportunities and actions to drive performance
Use store visits, industry news, sales and margin history and competitor shops to identify risks and opportunities
Build cross-divisional relationships and external networks
Challenge working practices to improve ways of working
Propose and execute initiatives, including new product trial strategies, to drive sales and margin
Grow talent through learning opportunities, coaching and mentoring
Manage the merchandising team, set direction and objectives, provide feedback and support, and drive high performance
Work closely with the Buying team to deliver department strategy, sales, profit and margin plans

Requirements

What you’ll need

Previous experience as a Merchandiser, or established Junior Merchandiser
Experience in an omni-channel business is highly desirable
Track record of delivering and exceeding sales and margin targets is essential
Track record of identifying and delivering on new product opportunities
Track record of driving strong team and individual performance and engagement
Very strong verbal and numerical reasoning skills
Very strong communication skills
Very strong analytical skills
Very strong attention to detail and accuracy
Skilled at presenting new ideas and gaining buy-in
Very strong people management, coaching, mentoring and development skills
Very strong interpersonal and collaboration skills, emotional intelligence and self-management
Highly organised with good prioritisation skills
Disciplined, conscientious and results oriented
Tenacious, resilient and adaptable to change
Change advocate with a curious, continuous learning mindset
Forward-thinking and innovative
Passion for the River Island brand and customer
Commitment to contributing to a safe, inclusive and respectful workplace

Benefits

Comp & perks

Generous 50% staff discount
Staff shop on site
Retail Trust discounts, benefits, financial advice, wellbeing solutions and more
Free onsite gym
Subsidised restaurant and café
Various social events throughout the year
Enhanced maternity, paternity, adoption and fertility treatment support
Retail Trust dedicated support
Give as you earn scheme
One paid Giver Island day each year
Matched funding
On-the-job training and qualifications
Progression opportunities across Retail and Head Office
Employer contribution toward retirement
Private pension plan
Optional healthcare through AXA
Commute allowance
25 days paid holiday excluding Bank Holidays
Option to purchase additional holiday twice a year
Flexible working requests considered for all roles unless operational requirements prevent otherwise