Senior Associate- Buying (Bodywear and Socks)

Key Objectives:

• As an Assistant Manager-Buying (Basketball and Teamsports) in our Merchandising team, you would be responsible for the Basketball and TeamsportsFootwear range planning. You would be working closely with the Sales and Channel Merchandising team.
• Analyzing seasonal trends and historical data; leveraging the same for range planning and pricing maximizing net sales and gross margins
• Responsible for delivering top and bottom line targets for the category
• Organizing road shows and presenting the range to customers
• Maximizing efficiency and business from the product lines offered by Puma Global
• Working closely with the Channel merchandising and sales team to understand the gaps in the inline range and fulfilling the same through SMU products/ lines
• Forecasting and uploading the same into the system on time as per Global deadlines
• Regular analysis of channel wise sales and incorporating the same in current/ future season in order to maximize business
• Working closely with Global product teams; Attending Global meetings and reviews; providing Puma India feedback and suggestions; highlighting India specific requirements
• Collecting market intelligence on competition brands with respect to product, pricing and distribution channels.
• Overseeing the development and lifecycle of bodywear and sock products from conception to launch
• Negotiating costs with sourcing team in order to attain optimum COGS and maximize gross margins
• Monitoring inventory levels and forecasting demand to optimize stock levels and minimize shortages.
• Tracking deliveries in order to meet launches aligned with global in store dates and seasonal requirements
• Working closely with Marketing and VM to ensure key stories are highlighted across channels and media.

Eligibility Criteria and Functional Competencies Required :

• PG from NIFT or other fashion management/technology from Tier 1 college
• 3+ years of experience
• Well versed in Microsoft Excel
• Strong numerical, analytical and merchandising skills
• Prior experience in Product or product related
• Prior knowledge of Retail/ecommerce industry would be important
• Knowledge of other analytical tools will be useful
• Ability to multitask and prioritize work based on business importance
• Willingness to learn new technology/tools as required by business
• Great communication and stakeholder management