Merchandise Leader

Role overview

As the Merchandise Leader for the Fresh department in Dargaville, you will take ownership of the team and the in-store presentation of merchandise. The role is centered on ensuring that products are displayed to a high standard, with strong attention to placement, visual appeal, and quality so customers have a better shopping experience.

You will also be responsible for making sure merchandising work is carried out in line with company policies and all relevant legal obligations.

About Woolworths Group

Woolworths Supermarkets New Zealand operates more than 185 stores and employs over 20,000 team members across Aotearoa. The business aims to make life a little better for Kiwi customers every day and serves around three million New Zealanders each week.

The culture is described as friendly, practical, energetic, and collaborative, with room for fresh ideas and opportunities to contribute value. The company values diversity of thought, mutual respect, care, curiosity, openness, and a proactive mindset.

What you will do

• Lead the Fresh area and guide the merchandise team to deliver strong visual merchandising standards throughout the store.
• Carry out regular floor walks and audits to maintain high expectations for freshness and quality, especially within fresh food production.
• Make sure planograms are followed accurately and that cleanliness, stock loss control, markdowns, and campaign presentation are all handled consistently.
• Encourage ownership of the company’s own-brand range and help team members act as knowledgeable food ambassadors.
• Identify process gaps, complete health checks, and improve operational effectiveness where needed.
• Step into the Acting Store Manager role during scheduled shifts when required.
• Contribute actively to team collaboration and shared problem-solving across the store.

What you will bring

• Strong problem-solving ability and a practical approach to complex challenges.
• Confidence in building productive relationships with colleagues, teams, and stakeholders.
• Leadership capability, including delegation, follow-up, coaching, and team motivation.
• Clear communication skills for setting expectations, timeframes, responsibilities, and standards of performance.
• A data-aware approach with the ability to use information to guide action and deliver accurate work on time.
• A commitment to working in line with company values.
• Availability for four weekend shifts per month, including at least one Saturday and one Sunday, plus at least one evening each week until at least store closing time.

What you can expect

• Team discounts across Woolworths Group brands and access to a rewards program that recognises purposeful work.
• Free confidential 24/7 support through Sonder for financial, medical, safety, psychological, or physical assistance for you and your family.
• Exposure to a large international business with broad career development possibilities across many disciplines.

Inclusion and accessibility

Woolworths Group places strong emphasis on diversity, equity, inclusion, and belonging. The company welcomes applicants from varied backgrounds and encourages candidates to share any support needs or adjustments required during the hiring process.

Additional information

The role is part of a wider global group focused on improving experiences for customers and communities. The company encourages innovation, brave ideas, genuine care, and a flexible approach to work, with the goal of helping people grow their careers and make a meaningful impact.