Merchandiser - H&M
We are seeking an experienced Merchandiser (Apparel & Accessories) to join our fast-paced, trend-driven fashion business that caters to young, trend-conscious consumers. In this Singapore-based role, you will lead the curation and sourcing of ready-made garments and accessories selecting on-trend products (rather than designing new ones) that resonate with the latest youth trends across the region. The ideal candidate has around 8 years of merchandising experience in fast fashion or trend-focused retail, with proven strengths in trend research, assortment planning, supplier coordination, buying, and executing go-to-market timelines. You will thrive in a youthful, high-energy environment at a scaling company (operating in markets like Singapore and Bangkok), and we offer a competitive salary (SGD, double-digit monthly range) plus benefits and growth opportunities.
Key Responsibilities
- Trend Research & Assortment Curation: Stay ahead of emerging fashion trends and micro-trends (e.g. on social media and street style) to identify products that Gen Z loves. Translate trend insights into well-curated apparel and accessory assortments that align with our brand's youthful aesthetic.
- Product Selection & Buying: Source and select ready-made garments and accessories from suppliers and wholesalers to build each collection. Make buying decisions based on trend relevance, quality, and sales potential ensuring we have the right products in the right quantities at the right time.
- Supplier Management: Coordinate with suppliers across the region (including in Bangkok and other Asian fashion hubs) to manage orders and production schedules. Negotiate pricing and terms to secure favorable deals, and maintain strong vendor relationships to ensure timely deliveries and quick turnarounds for fast fashion cycles.
- Assortment Planning: Develop and execute seasonal and monthly merchandise plans. Balance product categories, styles, and price points to create a compelling assortment that drives sales and appeals to Gen Z across Singapore, Bangkok, and other target markets. Monitor inventory levels, plan reorders for hot sellers, and strategize markdowns or promotions for slow-movers.
- Go-to-Market Coordination: Work closely with cross-functional teams (marketing, e-commerce, retail operations) to align product launches with campaign calendars and go-to-market timelines. Ensure new collections and products arrive and are ready for launch according to schedule, supporting a seamless rollout in all markets.
- Market Analysis & Sales Performance: Track weekly sales performance, customer feedback, and fashion trends in each region. Analyze sales data and market insights to identify growth opportunities or needed adjustments. Use this analysis to tweak the merchandise mix (e.g. introducing new trending items, dropping underperforming styles) and to inform future buying decisions.
- Cross-Regional Collaboration: Collaborate with teams in Singapore, Bangkok, and potentially other regional markets to ensure assortments meet local preferences while maintaining a cohesive brand identity. Leverage regional trend differences and similarities to optimize the product offering for each market.
- Continuous Innovation: Drive a culture of agility and innovation in merchandising. Quickly respond to fast fashion's rapid trend cycles (with new micro-collections launching frequently) by continuously refreshing the product assortment. Stay updated on competitor activity and emerging brands popular with Gen Z to keep our brand competitive and cutting-edge.
Qualifications & Experience
- 8+ years of experience in merchandising or buying, preferably in a fast-paced, fast fashion or trend-driven environment. A proven track record of curating successful apparel/accessory assortments is essential.
- Bachelor's degree or higher in Fashion Merchandising, Business, Marketing or a related field is preferred (or equivalent practical experience in merchandising/buying).
- Gen Z Trend Savvy: Deep understanding of Gen Z fashion trends, pop culture, and consumer behavior. Able to identify what's next and translate youth trends into commercially viable products. Passion for street style, social media trends, and youth culture is a must.
- Product & Category Knowledge: Strong background in apparel and accessories merchandising. Familiar with product quality standards, sizing/fit, and how to create a balanced collection across categories (e.g. tops, bottoms, footwear, jewelry, etc.).
- Supplier Sourcing & Negotiation: Hands-on experience in sourcing ready-made products and working with manufacturers or wholesalers. Skilled in negotiating pricing, MOQs, and delivery timelines to achieve both quality and profitability targets. Existing relationships in the supplier network (especially in Asia) are a plus.
- Analytical & Data-Driven: High proficiency in sales analysis, forecasting, and inventory planning. Comfortable using merchandising planning tools and Excel to analyze sell-through rates, plan Open-to-Buy budgets, and make data-backed decisions.
- Project Management: Excellent organizational skills with the ability to manage multiple seasons and product launches simultaneously. Proven ability to meet tight deadlines and adapt quickly when priorities shift. Experience coordinating go-to-market calendars or product launch timelines across teams is highly valued.
- Communication & Collaboration: Strong communication and interpersonal skills. Able to collaborate with cross-functional teams (marketing, design/creative, operations) and work effectively across different cultures and markets. Experience in Southeast Asian markets (especially Singapore and Thailand) and the ability to understand regional consumer nuances will be an advantage.
- Adaptability & Drive: A self-motivated team player who thrives in a fast-growing, entrepreneurial environment. Adaptable and resilient in the face of rapid changes and new challenges. Keen eye for detail and a creative mindset to continually improve our product offering.
This is an exciting opportunity for a merchandising professional who lives and breathes fashion trends and wants to make a big impact in a growing Gen Z-focused brand. If you're ready to shape the wardrobes of the next generation and drive success in a dynamic retail setting, we'd love to hear from you!