Footwear Merchandiser

About the role

Apparel Group is hiring a Footwear Merchandiser in the United Arab Emirates. The role supports the brand team in planning and managing footwear stock across stores, from allocation and season planning through to markdowns and stock control.

Key responsibilities

• Assist in developing merchandise plans for categories based on historical trends, sales performance and the brand team's outlook.
• Analyse store profiles using stock weeks, sales blend and inventory by grade reports to support allocation decisions.
• Run in-season stock analysis and balancing, markdown management and stock vs. sales performance reviews.
• Plan the merchandise mix, execute initial allocations and reserve management, and finalise seasonal assortment plans and size run books with the Senior Merchandiser.
• Monitor competitor brands' product lines, pricing and category developments, and conduct regular market visits with the Brand Manager.
• Ensure compliance with stock ageing standards and keep stock turns in line with company policy.
• Support margin negotiations, order placements and stock distribution decisions, and track actual sales against forecasts.
• Coordinate inventory checks and replenishments, monitor bestsellers and slow movers, and provide post-season category feedback reports.
• Take part in seasonal markdown and sales planning with the Category/Brand Manager.

Required profile

• 2-5 years of experience in retail merchandising or a similar role in fashion or lifestyle.
• Bachelor's degree in Business, Retail Operations, Merchandising or a related field preferred.
• Strong understanding of product strategy, vendor coordination, range development and trend analysis.

Required skills

• Proficiency in inventory management systems, MS Excel and PowerPoint.