Director, Merchandising - WRTW, Shoes, Fur & Kids

Director, Merchandising – WRTW, Shoes, Fur & Kids Reference: FEND
04341

Since 1925, the year in which it was founded, Fendi has linked its success, its image, its quality and the glamour of its products to a dual element: a delicate and precious equilibrium between tradition and modernity, the desire to preserve the values of the past and the courage to dare, innovate and astound.

As the Merchandising Director, and part of the Merchandising team, you will lead the merchandising strategies for the Women’s RTW, Shoes, Fur & Kids. This experience will enable you to work cross-functionally in a leader role across all functions of the organization and partner closely with the HQ office in Rome, Italy. This role will report to the VP, Merchandising.

• Define, implement and effectively communicate merchandising strategies for RTW, Shoes and Fur in line with brand vision and financial goals.
• Lead market analysis to identify trends, opportunities, and challenges with a clear perspective on needs for the Americas and respective product categories.
• Collaborate closely with cross-functional partners (Omni, CRM, VM, Retail, Communication) to develop cohesive local go-to-market plan that will support financial KPIs.
• Supervise and develop two direct reports: RTW & Fur Merchandising Manager and Shoe & Kids Merchandising Manager; provide leadership and guidance in their respective category management.
• Manage category performance by analyzing sales data, monitoring inventory levels, and adjusting plans as necessary to maximize revenue growth and profitability; ensuring clear communication of opportunities and wins to local leadership and HQ.
• Build strong relationships with key retail partners to optimize product performance aligned with brand strategy.
• Coordinate with Visual Merchandising teams to ensure consistent presentation of products across all retail channels.
• Work closely with the Vice President of Merchandising on range planning activities ensuring alignment across all categories within the department.
• Drive innovation within the product assortment by staying ahead of industry advancements and consumer preferences.

• Bachelor's degree in Business Administration, Fashion Merchandising or related field.
• At least 8 years of merchandising experience in a luxury fashion environment with direct experience managing Designer RTW (Shoe Experience a plus).
• Proven track record managing and developing high‑performing teams.
• Strong analytical skills paired with a creative mindset.
• Excellent leadership abilities to inspire team members towards excellence.
• In‑depth knowledge of luxury fashion market dynamics including customer segmentation, competitive analysis, pricing strategies.
• Proficiency in retail math and inventory management principles.
• Exceptional communication skills both written and verbal; ability to present complex concepts clearly across different audiences within the organization.
• Strategic thinker who can also execute tactically.
• Detail‑oriented individual who thrives under pressure.

Standard office hours apply (3 days in office, 2 days remote); however expectations include flexibility to attend industry events outside normal working hours as required by seasonal cycles or critical project timelines. Up to 50% domestic and international travel may be necessary depending on business needs.

Reports To:

Vice President of Merchandising.

Direct Reports: 2 direct reports consisting of Merchandising Manager, RTW & Fur and Merchandising Manager Shoes & Kids.