Divisional Merchandising Director - 19690

The Divisional Merchandise Director is responsible for bottom line sales and profit as well as creating the vision and strategy for several merchandising departments.  The Director will collaborate with inventory planning team to develop seasonal plans as well as achieve inventory turnover goals, forecast and budget financial metrics of assigned area and Lead, develop and motivate a team of buyers, assistant buyers and coordinators.

Who we are looking for:

• Bachelor’s Degree in Merchandising, Marketing or related area preferred
• 10 years of related work experience in Product Development, Merchandise, and Buying
• 3+ years of director level experience in Product Development, Merchandise, and Buying
• Previous Food and Beverage experience would be ideal
• Successful track record for high volume business growth and bottom line results
• High intelligence with a true entrepreneurial risk mentality, and strong analytical and strategic thinking skills
• Acute sense of brand and customer intimacy
• Proficient in conflict management and problem-solving
• Ability to innovate change through visionary thinking and strategic management
• Strong communication, presentation, negotiating and influencing skills
• Proven ability to identify, develop and retain top talent

Key Duties and Responsibilities:

• Supports direction and develops strategies and plans in support of the total company
• Sets standards in fashion, quality, price and brand, which deliver value, taking into account a dynamic marketplace.
• Fosters an environment that promotes personal development of buyers and their businesses.
• Promotes high morale amongst entire buying team and personally sets the example for development of associate and assistant buyers
• Sets the overall strategy and merchandise direction for the division.
• Directs buyers to develop assortments that support the needs of the customer and the financial objectives of the merchandise division.
• Ensures that pricing, promotional strategies, and marketing support the financial objectives of the merchandise division.
• Works with the planning organization to develop by-store assortment plans that support overall strategy of in-stock positioning for key merchandise categories, classifications, items and vendors.
• Understands competitor’s strengths, weaknesses, and strategy.
• Partners closely with planning team in order to set, communicate and drive financial goals.
• Develops annual sales/margin/inventory planning.  Required to forecast sales and margin monthly and develop action plans to meet business shortfalls.
• Travel 30%-50% required

Relocation Expenses available for the right candidate
Compensation and incentive plans are competitive

Headway provides equal employment opportunities (EEO) to all employees and applicants for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, disability or genetics. In addition to federal law requirements, Headway complies with applicable state and local laws governing nondiscrimination in employment in every location in which the company has facilities. This policy applies to all terms and conditions of employment, including recruiting, hiring, placement, promotion, termination, layoff, recall, transfer, leaves of absence, compensation and training.