Title: Director of Merchandising Manager/Buyer Salary- $185k + Location- New York, NY- Hybrid Our client, a well-established women’s contemporary brand is seeking a Director of Merchandising to oversee all Brands and Product categories for sportswear! Responsible for the overall direction of women’s branded product and merchandising categories. Develop a business strategy that represents all the Brand and Product Category to exceed volume and profit goals. Must have fashion knowledge, and customer understanding. RESPONSIBILITIES: • Lead the Product Development teams and design developing strategies for the line plans, assortments and color that balances best sellers, key items • Develop a strategic vision and new categories to drive a cohesive product assortment that consistently identifies with the customer • Develop the merchandising calendar • Sales analysis to benchmark opportunities forecasting plans • Drive strategic product and merchandise categories through forecasting and planning. • Collaborate with cross functional partners including upper management, sales, design and product development ensuring alignment with the strongest in design • Responsible for meeting all financial cost and margins • Collaborate with production for calendar and costing strategies. • Bring customer and market perspective to design and the product development process. • Identify opportunities to increase sales, improve margins, maximize inventories and decrease markdowns • Collaborate with the team for future trends, business opportunities, and product strategies. QUALIFICATIONS: ·     Bachelor’s degree in merchandising, business, or equivalent experience ·     Minimum of 10 plus years of related work experience in Merchandising/Buying/Product Development ·     Experience working with all sportswear categories- Woven’s, Knits, Denim, Outerwear ·     High taste level with proven talent to create a cohesive fashion viewpoint ·     Proven leadership skills with the ability to attract, develop and inspire a team ·     Strong presentation skills with upper management ·     Strong communication, influencing and negotiating skills