Sheet StreetMerchandise Manager
Oct. 2016 - Feb. 2019Durban, KwaZulu-Natal, South AfricaProducts responsible for: Hards & Softs including Bedroom, Bathroom and Living room
• Managed and developed a team of 4 Buyers and 4 Trainee Buyers.
• Trained and mentored staff from diverse backgrounds and ethnicities.
• Restructured Purchasing and Supply Chain functions as Supply Chain Manager, aligning with best practices.
• Built strong, trust-based relationships with suppliers, optimizing terms, quality, and supply times.
• Introduced new sourcing quality models, significantly enhancing profitability and reliability.
• Developed and implemented a product strategy as Merchandise Manager, providing leadership and insights for sourcing, planning, and executing an appealing product line.
• Led a multi-category buying team in Homeware, establishing best-in-class merchandising practices.
• Oversaw cost, quality, and availability of categories, ensuring adherence to stock targets and addressing budget and forecast deviations.
• Compiled budgets and forecasts for overall group planning and control.
• Collaborated with Commercial, Buying, and Retail teams to deliver exceptional customer service experiences.
• Assessed team capabilities and structure for future growth, creating development plans and setting KPIs to measure performance. Key Achievements:
- I consistently achieved all Key Performance Indicators (KPIs) related to product performance, management, development, and pricing strategy alignment. By conducting thorough research and benchmarking current trends, I provided high-level recommendations for enhancing the overall company strategy