The Junior Merchandiser is responsible for ensuring the smooth progression of orders through effective critical path management, account coordination, and cross-functional communication. The role combines operational excellence with commercial awareness, supporting the Sales Managers and wider business in achieving both sales growth and exceptional customer service.
Key Responsibilities
* Act as the primary point of contact for allocated customer accounts, building strong relationships with Buying, Merchandising, and Logistics teams.
* Maintain regular communication with customers, ensuring a high level of service and timely updates throughout the order lifecycle.
* Develop trusted relationships that support long-term customer satisfaction and business growth.
* Lead internal Critical Path meetings, ensuring all departments, including Design, Production, and Factory Merchandising, are aligned on order status, priorities, and potential risks.
* Prepare thoroughly for Critical Path meetings by gathering key updates and highlighting any issues requiring action.
* Ensure all customer updates and changes are communicated promptly to Sales Managers and relevant internal teams.
* Manage the order process from confirmation through to delivery, ensuring all orders are accurately entered, tracked, and progressed in line with agreed deadlines.
* Monitor the Critical Path to ensure key milestones are achieved and proactively resolve any issues that may impact delivery.
* Work closely with internal departments to maintain on-time delivery and service standards.
* Support Sales Managers with commercial planning activities, including sales forecasting, range analysis, and reporting.
* Assist in identifying sales opportunities through analysis of customer performance and product trends.
* Support the Factory Merchandising team with the day-to-day management of customer orders.
* Raise contracts on Sage.
* Receive customer purchase orders and convert stock contracts into active production orders.
* Manage the progression of each contract through the Critical Path process, ensuring all handover dates are achieved.
* Attend weekly Critical Path meetings.
* Order customer-specific trims and packaging, including RFID labels, holograms, swing tickets, and other branded components.
* Receive and check packing lists and supplier invoices before submitting documentation to the Finance team.
* Maintain accurate and up-to-date information within Sage.
* Attend internal customer review meetings to communicate key delivery dates and order updates.
* Conduct weekly Forward Order reviews to ensure data accuracy and identify any discrepancies.
Skills & Experience
* Strong organisational skills with excellent attention to detail.
* Effective communication and relationship-building abilities.
* Good commercial awareness and an analytical approach to problem solving.
* Ability to manage multiple priorities in a fast-paced environment.
* Proficient in Microsoft Office, particularly Excel.
* Experience using Sage or a similar ERP system is desirable.
* Previous merchandising, account management, or supply chain experience is advantageous but not essential.
* A proactive, positive attitude with a willingness to learn and develop
Salary description
£27000.00 - £28000.00 per year