Description

LONG TERM CONTRACT ROLE

Robert Half is looking for a talented and experienced Merchandising Specialist to create, oversee, and implement merchandising in-store strategies. Reporting to the Director of Marketing, this hands-on strategic role puts you at the forefront of understanding consumer trends, competition and analysis of consumer markets. This contract/temporary role is located in the Surrey, British Columbia area.

Strategic Focus

• Align the in-store and online merchandising strategy with the overarching brand strategy
• Analyze sales data, customer reactions, and market trends to anticipate product needs.
• Collaborate internally with Marketing, Purchasing, Finance and Business Development teams to accurately forecast product quantities, inventory levels, and pricing
• Identify sales strategies by analyzing market trends and needs of stores
• Remain up to date with industry/merchandising best practices and trends
• Collaborate with Marketing team relating to execution of marketing plans including the creation, building and display merchandising initiative.
• Ensure the online assortment’s product content is fully optimized, including attributes, images, buying guides, product reviews, etc. to maximize on-site conversion

 Sales Strategy

• Maximize customer engagement and sales by displaying products appropriately
•  Manage the distribution of POS items as assigned to the region to create brand affinity.
• Negotiating the costs of the creation and inventory for multiple POS items
• Prepare training and store communication materials to implement consistent in-store display elements / Merchandising Guide
• Responsible for creation, implementation and execution of plan-o-grams; including taking photos of process for comparison.
• Develop strategies to highlight promotions, price changes, clearance and holiday/seasonal needs and opportunities.
• Anticipate and maximize customer interest, reaction, and expectations.
• Analyze target demographics, regional needs, and market size.
• Track inventory: collaborate with Purchasing Department and Vendors to ensure correct stock and restock levels.

Requirements

Education/Experience that is a must:

·      Highly creative with experience in identifying target audiences and devising campaigns that engage, inform and motivate

·      Post-secondary education in Marketing, Product Procurement or a University Business Degree would be an asset.

·      Minimum 3-5 years’ experience in product management, merchandising or supply chain. Preference given to candidates with Automotive related experience. 

·      Ability to utilize technology to drive analysis and execution of business requirements

·      Ability to adapt to and lead change

·      Sound judgement and ability to effectively problem solve

·      Excellent verbal and written communication skills

·      Strong project management skills

·      Strong listening, presentation, and decision-making skills

·      Highly organized, able to multi-task effectively and work under changing priorities