Job Description

Job Title: Merchandising Head

Company: Ajanta Shoes India Pvt Ltd

Location: Delhi/ Kolkata

About Ajanta Shoes:

Ajanta Shoes is a leading footwear manufacturer known for its commitment to quality, innovation, and style. With a legacy spanning over 60 years, Ajanta Shoes has established itself as a trusted brand in the industry. We take pride in our dedication to crafting footwear that combines comfort, durability, and fashion-forward designs. As we continue to expand our presence both domestically and internationally, we are seeking a dynamic and experienced individual to join our team as the Head of Merchandising and Product Development.

Job Description:

As the Head of Merchandising at Ajanta Shoes, you will play a pivotal role in driving the company's growth and success. You will be responsible for overseeing all aspects of merchandising, product development, production planning, sourcing, and business expansion strategies. Reporting directly to the CEO, you will collaborate closely with cross-functional teams to ensure alignment with the company's goals and objectives.

1. Merchandising Strategy: Develop and execute merchandising strategies that align with the company's vision and objectives. Identify market trends, consumer preferences, and competitive landscape to drive product assortment and positioning.

2. Product Development: Lead the product development process from concept to commercialization. Collaborate with design, R&D, and manufacturing teams to create innovative and high-quality footwear collections that resonate with our target audience.

4. Sourcing and Vendor Management: Identify and onboard strategic sourcing partners and vendors to support the company's manufacturing needs. Negotiate contracts, pricing, and terms to achieve cost savings and maintain quality standards.

5. Business Expansion Strategies: Drive business expansion initiatives to enter new markets, channels, and product categories. Conduct market research, feasibility studies, and competitive analysis to identify growth opportunities and develop go-to-market strategies.

6. Cross-functional Collaboration: Collaborate with cross-functional teams, including sales, marketing, finance, and operations, to ensure alignment and synergy across departments. Act as a liaison between different functions to facilitate communication and decision-making.

7. Budget Management: Develop and manage the departmental budget to ensure optimal allocation of resources and achieve financial targets. Monitor expenses, analyze variances, and implement cost-saving measures where necessary.

8. Leadership and Team Development: Provide leadership, guidance, and mentorship to the merchandising and product development teams. Foster a culture of collaboration, innovation, and continuous learning to drive performance and employee engagement.

Qualifications:

- Bachelor's degree in Merchandising, Product Development, or related field. Master's degree preferred.

- 10+ years of experience in merchandising, product development, and sourcing within the footwear industry.

- Proven track record of successfully developing and commercializing footwear collections from concept to market.

- Strong understanding of market trends, consumer behavior, and competitive landscape.

- Excellent negotiation, communication, and interpersonal skills.

- Ability to lead cross-functional teams and drive results in a fast-paced environment.

- Strategic thinker with a focus on innovation, creativity, and business acumen.

- Willingness to travel domestically and internationally as required.