Merchandising Manager - Women's Ready-to-Wear

About Prada Group

Established in 1913 in Italy, the Prada Group is a leading global luxury brand operating across more than 45 countries. With iconic labels such as PRADA, Miu Miu, Church's, and Car Shoe, it employs a diverse workforce from over 100 nationalities. Recently, the Group expanded into the gourmet sector with the acquisition of Pasticceria Marchesi 1824, maintaining its hallmark of high-quality standards. Additionally, the company is deeply involved in the arts, continuously advancing contemporary art initiatives.

Role Overview

The Merchandising Manager for Women's Ready-to-Wear (WRTW) will play a pivotal role in supporting the Americas boutiques team by strategizing business activities and managing product merchandising. This position involves thorough analysis, assortment planning, and coordination across departments to align with Prada's brand vision.

Key Responsibilities

• Examine weekly sales data using Excel to ensure targets are met and prepare reports for senior leadership.
• Assist in managing inventory rebalancing efforts to optimize sales and increase sell-through rates.
• Engage in six buying sessions annually, both in Milan and virtually, to guide product selection.
• Conduct premarket evaluations including seasonal retrospectives to highlight previous successes and identify growth areas.
• Develop tailored seasonal assortments by store and size for over 50 boutiques, integrating company strategy with regional market trends.
• Oversee seasonal product distribution and replenishment for retail outlets.
• Maintain close communication with retail teams to resolve daily product-related queries efficiently.
• Collaborate with Visual Merchandising to ensure products are showcased in a way that aligns with brand standards and maximizes impact.
• Support markdown processes by recommending suitable items and redistributing products to boutiques with strong markdown performance.
• Work cross-functionally with logistics to monitor shipment and delivery status of merchandise.
• Perform market research analyzing trends, competitor positioning, and customer characteristics to inform merchandising tactics.
• Spend time in boutiques to observe sales trends, assess product placement, and verify adherence to brand image standards.
• Partner with Store Management to comprehend business needs and gather input for assortment decisions.
• Prepare comprehensive reports for product development and competitive analyses.
• Lead seasonal product training sessions for store staff, imparting sales strategies and brand vision.
• Conduct introductory training for new hires in Women's Ready-to-Wear and prepare training presentations.
• Collaborate with Retail Operations on event planning, setting sales targets and managing inventory before and after selling events.
• Represent the WRTW division at retail events, providing expertise and upholding brand values and aesthetics.
• Assist in client appointments during sales events and contribute to overall customer experience excellence.

Candidate Profile

• Possess between 5 to 7 years of merchandising experience, preferably with a background in the luxury fashion industry and Women's Ready-to-Wear segment.
• Exhibit strong organizational skills with the ability to manage multiple priorities effectively.
• Demonstrate meticulous attention to detail coupled with excellent communication skills, comfortable with public speaking and presenting.
• Proficient in Microsoft Excel and PowerPoint for data analysis and presentations.
• Willingness to travel frequently within the country and internationally.
• Display a positive, entrepreneurial mindset and be an enthusiastic team player.

Workplace Environment and Commitment

Joining Prada Group means becoming part of a creative and multicultural setting driven by curiosity and a dedication to excellence. The company values and nurtures the talent and passion of its employees, fostering professional development. Prada is committed to promoting an inclusive, equitable workplace welcoming candidates of all backgrounds, and views diversity as a cornerstone for success.

Compensation

This position offers an annual salary ranging between $100,000 and $110,000, with eligibility for bonuses and additional incentives. Compensation will be determined based on the candidate's relevant experience, skills, and knowledge.