Merchandise Manager

Role Summary The Merchandise Manager owns the performance, growth, and strategic direction of assigned brands and product categories. This role functions as a business owner, responsible for assortment strategy, vendor partnerships, financial outcomes, and successful execution of go-to-market initiatives. Key Responsibilities Own P&L performance for assigned brands/categories, including revenue, margin, and inventory turns. Develop and execute category strategies aligned with company growth objectives. Analyze sales, trends, and customer insights to inform decision-making and identify opportunities. Category & Business Ownership Own P&L performance for assigned brands/categories, including revenue, margin, and inventory turns. Develop and execute category strategies aligned with company growth objectives. Analyze sales, trends, and customer insights to inform decision-making and identify opportunities. Assortment & Lifecycle Management Curate and optimize product assortments based on performance, trends, and customer needs. Lead SKU rationalization and lifecycle planning (introductions, expansions, exits). Establish pricing, promotional strategies, and markdown plans. Vendor & Brand Management Build and manage strategic relationships with brand partners. Lead negotiations related to cost, terms, marketing support, and exclusivity. Collaborate with vendors on innovation pipeline, forecasting, and joint business planning. Demand Planning & Inventory Strategy Develop accurate forecasts and inventory strategies to support sales and minimize risk. Partner with supply chain and warehouse teams to ensure product availability. Monitor sell-through, aging inventory, and replenishment strategies. Go-To-Market & Product Launches Lead end-to-end product launches from concept through execution. Align cross-functional teams (Marketing, Education, Operations, Customer Experience) on launch plans. Ensure strong in-market execution and post-launch performance tracking. Cross-Functional Leadership Serve as the primary liaison between merchandising and internal stakeholders. Influence marketing campaigns, promotions, and customer communications. Present insights, performance updates, and strategic recommendations to leadership. Operations & Execution Excellence Oversee purchase order lifecycle, ensuring accuracy and timeliness. Ensure data integrity across systems (SKU setup, pricing, vendor records). Resolve discrepancies with vendors, accounting, and warehouse teams. Qualifications Bachelor’s degree required 3 – 7+ years in merchandising, buying, or brand/category management Strong analytical skills with experience owning financial performance Demonstrated ability to manage vendors and negotiate effectively Experience with inventory planning and forecasting Excellent communication and cross-functional collaboration skills Ability to balance strategic thinking with operational execution Professional Beauty Industry experience preferred Compensation $70,000-$90,000 Potential up to 10% bonus Benefits include health, dental, life, vision & others 401k & profit sharing plans Our Brand Promise: Salon Innovations is exclusively dedicated to the success of Great Clips salons. core principles: dedicated We focus all our energy on Great Clips. passionate This isn’t just our job, it’s our life. supportive We want to see Great Clips succeed, so what can we do to help? #J-18808-Ljbffr