Merchandising Assistant - Outdoors
Responsible to:
Merchandiser
Department:
Outdoors Buying & Merchandising
Hours:
40 Hours, Monday–Friday
Location:
Bury HQ
Role Purpose
The Merchandising Assistant plays a key role in supporting the Merchandising team, with a specific focus on the Apparel category to ensure the right products are in the right stores, in the right quantities, at the right time. This role provides essential administrative, analytical, and operational support to drive sales, optimise stock levels, and help deliver a first‑class merchandising function for JD Outdoor.
Key Responsibilities
Stock Management & Allocation
* Support the allocation of stock to stores and channels, ensuring availability aligns with sales demand.
* Maintain replenishment levels and take action to minimise both overstock and stock shortages.
* Assist the team with managing intake to ensure timely delivery from suppliers.
Data & Reporting
* Produce and update daily, weekly, and monthly reports on sales, stock, and store performance.
* Analyse data to identify trends, risks, and opportunities, sharing insights with the wider team.
* Update and maintain merchandising systems with accuracy and attention to detail.
Range & Product Administration
* Set up new products on internal systems, ensuring all information is accurate and complete.
* Maintain the product lifecycle throughout the season, including managing discontinued lines and markdowns.
* Support range reviews, preparing data and presenting findings when required.
Communication & Collaboration
* Build strong relationships with stores, supply chain, buying, and warehouse teams to ensure smooth product flow.
* Respond to store queries regarding stock issues in a timely and professional manner.
* Work closely with the Assistant Merchandiser to support day‑to‑day team operations.
General Administration
* Manage purchase orders, delivery schedules, price changes, and any product amendments.
* Provide general administrative support to the Merchandising team to ensure the department runs efficiently.
Skills & Experience
Essential
* Strong numerical skills and confidence working with data.
* Excellent organisational skills with the ability to prioritise workload effectively.
* Proficient in Microsoft Excel and comfortable learning new systems.
* High attention to detail and accuracy in all work.
* Strong communication skills and a collaborative working style.
Desirable
* Previous experience in a retail or head office environment.
* Education in Fashion Buying & Merchandising, Business Management, Economics or Mathematics or relevant subject.
* Knowledge of merchandising principles or stock management systems.
* A passion for the outdoor industry or JD Outdoor brands.