Assistant Import Merchandiser - FTC

Location: Hilcote

A fantastic opportunity has arisen to join one of the leading Suppliers/Distributors of automotive/bike accessories and apparel. This innovative and exciting business also has its own well recognised and successful brands. We are looking for an Assistant import Merchandiser to to join on a fixed-term contract, to develop and maintain strong relationships with international suppliers and ensure timely delivery, availability, quality and cost efficiency of products.

Also oversee supplier performance, negotiates terms, and resolve issues to maintain smooth supply chain operations. Coordinates shipments, compliance, and documentation while aligning inventory with business needs.

Assistant Import Merchandiser - Responsibilities

Order Processing

* Raise purchase orders, review retail orders, and ensure correct print positions and templates.

Supplier Coordination

* Liaise with international manufacturers (e.g., in Vietnam, Pakistan, China) to manage planning and production.

* Evaluate supplier capabilities, capacity, and compliance with ethical sourcing and sustainability standards

* Conduct regular performance reviews and factory audits to ensure quality and reliability

* Negotiate lead times and minimum order quantities to optimise cost and flexibility

* Resolve production issues, delays, and quality concerns through proactive communication and problem-solving

* Collaborate with Supply Chain Director and Supply Manager to onboard new vendors and manage risk

* Drive continuous improvement in workflow efficiency and supplier responsiveness

* Analyse historical data to improve forecasting and lead time accuracy

Critical Path Management

* Develop and maintain detailed critical path schedules for each product category and season.

* Track key milestones: sample approvals, bulk production, inspections, shipping, and delivery

* Use internal documents and ERP systems to update timelines and flag potential delays

* Implement contingency plans to mitigate delays and ensure timely product launches

* Align production timelines with marketing campaigns, retail drops, and seasonal demand

* Drive continuous improvement in workflow efficiency and supplier responsiveness

Shipment Planning

* Work with suppliers to approve shipments and ensure on time handover to freight forwarders

* Collaborate with Import Merchandiser to ensure all documentation is provided and shipment details and priorities are clearly communicated for inbound planning

Cross Functional Collaboration

* Communicate status updates and risks to cross-functional teams including design, demand, sales, and logistic

Assistant Import Merchandiser - Requirements

* Degree in business, supply chain or other relevant fields ideal.

* A minimum of 3 year experience in a merchandising/demand planning/forecasting role

* Highly organised - able to manage own workload

* Capability to multitask in a fast paced environment.

* Proactive, with the ability to foresee problems and find solutions to mitigate business risk

* Excellent written and verbal communication skills.

* Fluent in English, other languages are a plus

* Good knowledge of software tools:
Excel advanced, SAP and Microsoft Dynamics NAV