The Junior Merchandiser (International) is responsible for owning a portfolio of International Franchise Partner relationships and driving commercial performance in line with the International Strategy. Working collaboratively with external partners and key internal functions, including Buying & Merchandising, Marketing, Visual Merchandising and Logistics. You will ensure delivery against agreed International KPIs, maximise trading opportunities and support sustainable partner growth. You will oversee the day-to-day work of the team, providing clear direction, prioritisation and development support to ensure the effective delivery of the partner relationships you are responsible for, with support from the International Franchise Controller.

Responsibilities

• International Delivery
  • Translate the UK Commercial Strategy for International Partners, supporting clear understanding to maximise trading opportunities.
  • Prepare seasonal budgets and partner buy plans through robust analysis of historical performance and market insight.
  • Develop a deep understanding of partner markets, including customer profile, culture, competition and trading conditions.
  • Identify future trends and opportunities within international markets to inform planning and decision-making.
• Range Planning and Development
  • Collaborate with Partners and Buying & Merchandising teams to develop ranges that meet International customer needs.
  • Establish initial intake plans and core KPIs, ensuring final ranges align with partner requirements and commercial objectives.
  • Support range sign-off with clear rationale based on data, insight and market knowledge.
• Trading and Stock Management
  • Monitor buy performance versus plan, identifying opportunities and risks and taking appropriate action.
  • Maintain control of Partner Open to Buy, despatch and DC stock levels to ensure effective flow of stock.
  • Support management of the International Buy Plan, ensuring alignment between partner seasonal buys and WSSI forecasts.
  • Analyse key business reports and develop tools to support Partner planning and in-season trading decisions.
• Team Coordination and Development
  • Oversee and prioritise the day-to-day workload of the Assistant Merchandisers in the team, providing guidance and coaching to support their development.
  • Foster a high-performance, collaborative culture across the International team.
  • Role model Matalan values and drive best practice ways of working.
• Partner and Stakeholder Management
  • Build strong, trusted relationships with International Partners, acting as a key link between partners and the UK business.
  • Work cross-functionally with Buying, Merchandising, Marketing, Imports, Supply Chain, Visual Merchandising and Store Operations to deliver for Partners.
  • Facilitate regular communication and act as an ambassador for Matalan.

Requirements

• Expertise
  • Experience as a Junior Merchandiser, or an established Assistant Merchandiser ready to step up, within International Franchise or wholesale.
• Commercial Acumen
  • Strong understanding of commercial drivers and the ability to make informed decisions that support KPIs.
  • Knowledge of international markets, competitors and external factors impacting trade.
• Data & Insight
  • Confident analysing data and trends to identify patterns, risks and opportunities.
  • Uses insight to shape recommendations and influence partner decisions.
• Partner Management
  • Experience working with external business partners, building collaborative and mutually successful relationships.
• Cross-Functional Collaboration
  • Proven ability to work effectively with internal teams, balancing priorities to deliver the best outcomes.
• Leadership & Coordination
  • Experience guiding and developing others, overseeing workload and priorities without formal line management.
• Adaptability & Resilience
  • Comfortable operating in a fast-paced environment with multiple stakeholders and changing priorities.

Benefits

• 20% staff discount, which increases with length of service
• Thrive Recognition Scheme
• Wellbeing support provided by the Retail Trust
• Life Assurance
• Retail Rewards platform offering discounts for other retailers
• Pension Scheme
• Access to a wide range of career development
• Additional benefits may apply depending on your role and area of the business

Application Process

In the event that a high volume of suitable applications are received, the post may close prior to the specified closing date. Please apply as soon as possible if interested. We want give every candidate the opportunity to perform at their best throughout the application and interview process and then ultimately in their role. If you require any adjustments during our recruitment process, please don’t hesitate to let us know.

About Matalan

From humble beginnings to disruptive innovations in the retail industry, find out about about how Matalan is ever-evolving here. We know as a team, we are stronger together – we champion equality for all and make lasting connections that go beyond work. We thrive off our inclusive culture, encouraging our colleagues to bring their true selves to work and contributing to collective creativity, open-mindedness and growth.