What You Will Do:

Allocation Process

• Manage accurate BTF setting and ratio balancing.
• Guide and train allocators.
• Manage and implement AI Allocation solution from Invent Analytics.
• Liaise with stores to understand regional needs, ensuring optimum stock levels and correct size availability.
• Improve availability and sell through in stores.

Business Reports and Analysis

• Generate accurate and clear business reports.
• Maintain reporting processes and generate promotion tracking.
• Analyze weekly trade reports and recommend action points.
• Report and flag best/worst sellers, analyze customer habits, and understand product choices.
• Produce and analyze seasonal sales and recommend future buying decisions.

Catalogue Buying

• Assist Senior Merchandiser/Merchandiser in Catalogue Buying process.
• Maintain Core Buying sheet and implement Demand Planning solution.
• Enter buying quantities into IBT/Digital Range Building system.
• Prepare planograms using DRB and make comparisons against LY/Buying Budget/Promotional calendar.
• Contribute to BU strategy with market awareness and product appreciation.

Communication

• Act as first point of contact for stores on stock issues and assist in weekly trade communications.
• Contribute to planning for retail conference and digital transformation strategy.
• Provide accurate information for business users and ensure online product data is customer friendly.
• Maintain strong relationships with Principals and ensure comprehensive regional offers.

Leading People

• Communicate strategic objectives clearly and work to SMART goals.
• Provide coaching for team development and succession planning with HRBP.
• Role model Al-Futtaim Way Behaviours and M&S Values.
• Engage in quality PDR processes to ensure high team engagement and development.

Skills

Required Skills To Be Successful:

• Strong analytical and numerical skills with attention to detail.
• Proficient in using Microsoft Excel and reporting tools.
• Excellent communication and collaborative skills.
• Capability to manage and train team members effectively.

What Qualifies You For The Role:

• Bachelor's degree in Business Management or equivalent.
• Minimum of 3 years experience in fashion buying and merchandising at the assistant or allocator level.
• Experience in a retail buying environment in MENA and/or Europe, with an understanding of UK/European brands.
• Strong proficiency in Excel and familiarity with SAP is an additional advantage.