Senior Manager (Commercial Apparel)

About the Role

The Senior Manager (Commercial Apparel) will be responsible for developing and executing the buying strategy for the Bedding, Bath (Towel, Mat) & Activities (Camping, Travel) and Apparel category, ensuring a compelling and competitive product assortment. This role ensures cost optimisation, quality compliance, and supplier partnerships to drive category growth and profitability.

Responsibilities

• Develop and execute annual category buying plans and product assortments for the Apparel segment aligned with company goals.
• Source, evaluate, and select products from local and international suppliers to ensure a strong and innovative merchandise mix.
• Negotiate commercial terms, pricing, and contracts with suppliers to maximize profitability and ensure timely deliveries.
• Collaborate with suppliers and internal design/product teams to drive Apparel product development initiatives.
• Monitor market trends, competitor activities, and consumer insights to identify growth opportunities and mitigate risks.
• Manage category performance through sales analysis, inventory control, and promotional planning to achieve revenue, margin, and stock targets.
• Build and maintain strong working relationships with key licensors, suppliers, and cross-functional teams (marketing, supply chain, and retail operations).
• Regularly review category performance and provide data-driven recommendations to senior management.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's or Master degree in Business, Merchandising, Marketing, or a related field.
• Proven experience (8 - 10 years) in Apparel products from fashion industry or retail companies (e.g., Shisegae, Emart, Lottemart), specifically with the Korean market.
• Strong negotiation, analytical, and commercial acumen.
• Excellent communication, stakeholder management, and vendor relationship skills.
• Highly organized with the ability to manage multiple projects and deadlines in a fast-paced environment.
• Strong proficiency in MS Office, merchandising systems, and data analysis tools.
• Passion for the industry and keen awareness of emerging trends and consumer preferences.
• Fluent in Korean and good command of English communication skills.