Senior Merchandiser - Handbags & Accessories

About The Dune Group

Dune London is a premier affordable luxury brand specializing in footwear and accessories, recognized widely across the UK and internationally. The brand operates 50 stores in the UK and has a global presence with over 100 locations across 25 countries. With a 30-year legacy, Dune has cemented its reputation at the upper tier of the high street by focusing on quality fashion footwear and accessories. The company is currently poised for significant growth through expansion of online sales as well as partnerships globally.

Role Summary

We are seeking a skilled Senior Merchandiser specializing in Handbags and Accessories to significantly enhance the commercial success and strategic direction of our Accessories division. The role demands close collaboration across Buying, Wholesale, and Web teams to devise and execute seasonal merchandising strategies that drive sales, profit, and growth. This is an influential role where your strategic decisions will directly affect business outcomes.

Key Responsibilities

• Design and lead seasonal merchandising strategies including forecasting, budgeting, and inventory management for Handbags & Accessories.
• Use performance data to optimize assortments and enhance sales, margin, and profitability working closely with Buying.
• Ensure product ranges are well-distributed and aligned with customer demand across stores and online channels.
• Create balanced product mixes in terms of category, pricing, color, and materials while adhering to margin targets and KPIs.
• Manage in-store sales plans, identify opportunities for growth, monitor underperformance, and develop grading models.
• Oversee markdown policies and terminal stock control to safeguard profitability.
• Collaborate with wholesale partners to ensure the delivery of commercially viable product assortments and adherence to key deadlines.
• Continuously reforecast stock and sales (WSSI) based on trading trends, monitoring risks and opportunities.
• Maintain stringent stock controls and appropriate inventory coverage levels.
• Handle line-level projections and repeat order processes ensuring timely supply considering lead times.
• Track weekly trading metrics including sales, stock levels, margins, and markdowns to take corrective actions to optimize performance.
• Communicate insights and strategic recommendations clearly to senior management.
• Lead, mentor, and develop the merchandising team to build talent and maintain process accuracy.

Experience and Skills Required

• Prior experience as a Merchandiser in fast-paced premium or luxury fashion brands, with strong expertise in handbags and accessories.
• Highly analytical with a commercial mindset and strategic foresight.
• Excellent leadership capabilities alongside strong communication and stakeholder engagement skills.
• Deep understanding of customer behavior, product trends, and market dynamics.
• Proficiency in strategic planning, forecasting, trading, and inventory management.
• Effective collaboration with Buying, Wholesale, and Web teams to support business objectives.
• Advanced Excel skills and experience with Power BI, demonstrating strong adaptability with new software and business processes.
• A passionate approach to product innovation and customer satisfaction.
• Ability to excel in a dynamic retail environment and contribute positively to team culture.

Benefits and Perks

• Flexible working arrangement combining office and remote work.
• Modern, sustainable office located near Westfield, West London.
• A supportive and open corporate culture offering opportunities for career growth.
• Engagement with charitable initiatives, currently partnering with Mental Health UK.
• Generous 60% employee discount on Dune products.
• 25 days annual leave plus bank holidays.
• Cycle to Work scheme to promote sustainable commuting.
• Company pension and life assurance schemes.
• Early finish at 3:00 p.m. every payday Friday to promote work-life balance.
• Regular social events and team gatherings.
• Access to comprehensive employee assistance programs including counseling, legal advice, and financial guidance.
• Support from dedicated Wellbeing Allies available for confidential discussions.

Application Process

We carefully evaluate all applications. If your profile matches our needs, we will contact you for a discussion; otherwise, we will notify you of our decision without detailed feedback. Candidates are encouraged to learn about our brand, the role, and interviewers ahead of the interview and prepare relevant examples showcasing their skills and experience.