Assistant Merchandiser – Simply Be

N Brown – who we are and why work for us? 

At N Brown, we’re committed to building a diverse workforce and creating an inclusive environment that values equality for all. Our vision is that by ‘championing inclusion, we’ll become the most loved and trusted fashion retailer’. Diversity, Equity, Inclusion and Belonging are, therefore, at the heart of our culture.

We’re a forward-thinking digital retailer with a financial services proposition to be proud of. We’re customer-obsessed, serving them through three core brands: JD Williams, Simply Be, and Jacamo. We’re experienced, with over 160 years of trading under our belt. We’re inclusive, as we believe in fashion without boundaries; and we’re sustainable, striving to make as little impact on the planet as possible.

In May 2024 we were delighted to be named one of The Sunday Times Best Places to Work 2024. We work hard to create a happy and inclusive culture for everyone and we’re so proud to have made this list – as voted for by our very own colleagues!

Assistant Merchandiser 

The Assistant Merchandiser reports to a Merchandiser or Senior Merchandiser, the role will have some degree of Merchandising responsibility and is the first step to becoming a Merchandiser. The aim is to maximise commercial opportunities through the effective management of inventory, driving demand and service through improved availability and forecasting and reducing markdown to maximise profit.

What you’ll be responsible for as an Assistant Merchandiser: 

• Identify and complete actions for a daily/weekly trading issues
• Prepare and present weekly trading information within the department
• Update and maintain line cards recommending action (RDF/IP)
• Using the most current information, assess trended forecast estimate for accuracy, submit recommendations for buys and cancellations
• Conduct regular meetings with suppliers and direct dispatch team to provide revised forecast information
• Prepare and present corrective action plans to clear and maintain dormancy levels;
• Using historical analysis, present conclusions to support range planning
• Pre-empt future problems using supplier knowledge, shipping info and liaison with CSO and warehouses
• Challenge and escalate any dates that are or will be missed or will affect launch availability in line with the critical path
• Calculate colour/size ratio breakdowns considering MOQs and lead times to ensure the appropriate levels of availability at all times
• Ad hoc duties are also an essential daily part of the Assistant Merchandisers role, also providing administrative support when required
• Identify PO’s and amendments to be raised
• Support and communicate with Partnership Team

What skills and experience will you have? 

• Relevant degree in fashion or the ability to demonstrate the required level of skills through work-experience
• Excellent administrative, communication and organisation skills
• A keen interest in fashion and customer first
• Driven & motivated
• Retail experience essential

What’s in it for you?

• Hybrid working
• 24 days holiday (+ 8 bank holidays) with the option to buy an additional 10 days
• Annual bonus scheme
• Enhanced maternity and adoption leave
• Access to Apricity, a self-funding IVF benefit at a reduced rate
• Company pension with up to 8% N Brown contribution
• Mental Health support both internally and externally, including access to our wellbeing champions and counselling services
• A range of financial wellbeing support
• Colleague discount across all N Brown brands
• Onsite café with subsidised rates and local restaurant discounts!
• Life Assurance and Private Medical Insurance
• Paid volunteer time – all our colleagues can take a full day paid to volunteer for a charity of their choice

Ways of Working 

We offer hybrid working which varies across the business depending on the role you’re in. For this role, the expectation would be 3 days per week. Our Head Office is located in the Northern Quarter in Manchester City Centre. So if you are travelling by train, tram or bus we’re perfectly located, plus we’re surrounded by cool cafes, trendy bars and the best places to eat!

Our working hours are 36.17 per week and our core working hours are between 10am – 4pm. Given we don’t have strict working hours you can find the working pattern that’s right for you.

Our promise to you: 

We’re an equal opportunity employer and value diversity. We do not discriminate based on race, religion, colour, national origin, sex, gender, gender expression, sexual orientation, age, marital status, veteran status, or disability status.

What happens when you apply to a role at N Brown? 

As soon as we receive your application, we’ll send you an email to let you know. We always aim to come back to you as soon as possible with an update and we really appreciate you taking the time to apply for a role with us. Good luck!

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