Head of Merchandising (Japan)

At YETI, we believe that time spent outdoors matters more than ever and our gear can make that time extraordinary. When you work here, you’ll have the opportunity to create exceptional, meaningful work and problem solve with innovative team members by your side. Together, you’ll help our customers get the high-quality gear they need to make the most of their adventures. We are BUILT FOR THE WILD™.As Head of Merchandising (Japan), you will be responsible for leading the development and execution of merchandising strategies to maximise sales and profitability. You will oversee a small team and collaborate cross-functionally to shape the product assortment, optimise inventory management and enhance customer experience. You will lead the go-to-market calendar and consider local nuances, resulting in customers connecting with YETI.ResponsibilitiesDevelop and execute merchandising strategies to deliver business objectivesDefine long-term merchandising strategy and category architecture Lead a team of senior managers and category leaders Drive innovation in product assortment, pricing, and customer experience Partner with executive leadership on company-wide initiatives Own P&L performance for assigned business unitsOwn and drive the Go-to-market process and assortment strategy, ensuring visibility and understanding of all regional plans, in close collaboration with channel leads Manage a complex and fast-growing business that involves active portfolio management, including monitoring and responding to regional omni-channel sales, product and consumer feedback Be the regional voice for category needs and opportunities at key Global product milestone meetings.Lead the development of seasonal line plans, assortment strategies, pricing and promotional plansReview and execute on product assortments that reflect the Brand, community feedback and market trendsCollaborate closely with cross-functional teams to align merchandising strategies with overall business objectives. Provide insights and recommendations to inform product development and marketing initiatives that resonate with the region and local customersLead assortment planning, SKU optimization and product lifecycle management initiatives in-line with global and regional strategyOversee inventory planning and management processes to optimize stock levels, minimize excess inventory and maximize sell-throughDevelop inventory targets, replenishment strategies and allocation plansLead visual merchandising initiatives to enhance presentation and visibility across retail and e-commerce/digital channels. Leverage visual merchandising guidelines and standards to ensure consistent brand messaging and story-tellingAnalyse sales performance, sell-through rates and KPIs to evaluate merchandising effectiveness and identify opportunities for improvementConduct sales forecasting and demand planning to support inventory management and business decisionsBe the Go-to-market champion for seasonal/new product introductions, which includes engaging and organizing the region to help successfully launch new productsPrepare weekly/monthly sell-through and category performance reports Own seasonal retrospective analysis to ensure learnings are factored into future buy strategy at channel/market levelQualifications And AttributesAt least 12 years’ experience in merchandising leadership roles, preferably across retail or FMCG industry Tertiary degree in Business, Marketing or related fieldAdvanced skills in MS ExcelDeep knowledge of the wholesale and retail landscapes across outdoor/sports and fashion/lifestyle segments Innovative thinker who synthesizes consumer insights, macro trends and competitive analysis to make informed product decisions Ability to work at scale within a global, high-growth environment Experience with long-range planning, managing complex categories within an omni-channel environmentSelf-starter who works well in a fast-paced and high-performance environmentHands-on approach to get things done, flexible and positive attitudeStrong analytical and strategic thinking skillsExcellent communication, negotiation and interpersonal skills; building effective relationships across all levels of the organizationA team-player, collaborating and building strong relationships to meet business objectivesAbility to prioritize and execute with attention to detail Benefits & PerksClick here to learn about the benefits and perks we offer at YETI.YETI is proud to be an Equal Opportunity Employer.Our commitment to creating a diverse, equitable, and inclusive culture is at the center of everything we do for our employees. We embrace all applicants looking to bring their authentic selves to YETI and contribute to our mission of keeping the wild WILD. Find out more about our commitment to DE&I at yeti.com/esg.html.All applicants for employment will be considered without regard to an individual’s race, color, sex, gender identity, gender expression, religion, age, national origin or ancestry, citizenship, physical or mental disability, medical condition, family care status, marital status, sexual orientation, genetic information, military or veteran status, or any other basis protected by federal, state or local laws.YETI Applicant Privacy NoticeYETI welcomes and encourages applications from people with disabilities. Accommodations are available upon request for candidates taking part in all aspects of the selection process. If you require accommodation in order to apply for a job, please contact us at accommodationrequest@yeti.com.