Merchandise Manager

Job Purpose

The Merchandise Manager will plan, implement and manage an effective product development strategy to support the Emirates brand in order to create brand awareness and generate revenue. You will ensure the product development cycle is effectively managed in terms of timeline, supplier management and delivery & quality standards. You will oversee retail and wholesale operations to maximise market reach and profitability.

In This Role You Will

• Plan and manage product development within the Merchandise Unit focusing on high quality, cost effective products delivered on time. You will drive innovation and assist Manager Merchandise with a sustainable merchandise strategy. Stay ahead of trends using market research and new concepts in line with integrity of the Group's brand.
• Oversee the development and commercialisation of EK group product styles and manage the product life cycle. This includes generating creative ideas, product testing and conforming to safety standards. Develop product appropriate for various sales channels maintaining high retail, and brand standards. Ensure clear communication between all members of the merchandise team and the Creative Services Unit .
• Oversee the planned expansion in existing external revenue streams and new business opportunities such as store openings from an operational perspective. In line with this develop premium product ranges and drive partnerships with the aim of aligning product with the overall vision of Emirates as a lifestyle brand.
• Work effectively with Procurement and Logistics to define best practices for a supplier management process. Engage with Procurement & Logistics to manage relationships with suppliers in terms of product development and forecasting forward requirements to ensure efficient and timely product supply/delivery. Develop and introduce a supplier rating method to define preferred partners going forward. Define and agree Service Level Agreements (SLAs) for product delivery timelines. Communicate with supplier managers and product team members to ensure a smooth product development process.
• Engage with all Corporate Comms, Marketing and Brand (CCMB) teams to ensure synergy and consistency of Emirates content across all merchandise products and channels. Manage and influence the relationships with internal and external stakeholders by providing product development solutions. Provide added value to Sponsorship, Events and PR teams on global projects to ensure branded merchandise opportunities are maximised. Direct Merchandise colleagues to provide clear, succinct merchandise related solutions for support project teams (e.g. conferences and major launch campaigns, brief analysis).
• Ensure that the Merchandise Visual Style Guide (VSG) is maintained on a quarterly basis and ensure merchandise product development is managed in accordance with the brand strategy. Ensure that product and operational activities are aligned with CCMB brand values and brand positioning, to enhance brand equity.
• Define and manage inventory levels relating to product development, ensure optimal inventory levels are maintained and all product lines are introduced in line with a range planning methodology. Develop and implement processes that ensure stringent quality checks are carried out once products are shipped.
• Lead, mentor and develop the Merchandise Specialist and Supervisors to identify product development opportunities for each revenue channel and global network in order to deliver creative and cost-optimised product development solutions. Guide them to improve performance through continuous training and development. Deal with staff issues as they arise and offer solutions and support. Ensure team members undertake training as identified in their personal and professional development plans.
  
  

Qualifications & Experience

To be considered for this role, you must meet the below requirements:

• Degree or Honours (12+3 or equivalent).
• 8+ years of experience in Marketing & Media Communication.
• Must have strong numeracy skills.
• Experience in a Product Development role. Knowledge of Marketing in a retail environment and sourcing merchandise would be beneficial.
• Should have detailed knowledge of Product Development processes and how the Merchandise Supply Chain can be utilised as a marketing tool.
• Should have a strong grasp of the airline industry, sporting and cultural knowledge and how they link together through sponsorships and events.
  
  

Salary & Benefits

Join us in a management role and enjoy an attractive tax-free salary. On top of our generous travel benefits, including discounted flights and hotel stays around the world, this managerial role also has an excellent leave and healthcare package. That’s on top of transport benefits, life insurance and more. Find out what it’s like to live and work in our fast-paced, cosmopolitan home city in the Dubai Lifestyle section of our website www.emirates.com/careers