Merchandising Director

Designation: Merchandising DirectorBrand: Sumwon StudiosLocation: Dubai, UAEAbout SUMWON STUDIOSSUMWON STUDIOS is a fast-growing collective of direct-to-consumer fashion brands, including MISSGUIDED, SUMWON, BALR, Baby Phat, Playboy, AiiRZ and KiZN. We are rewriting the rules of fast fashion through creativity, data and technology, delivering products with purpose, speed and style to millions of customers worldwide.In partnership with one of the world’s largest fashion retailers, our reach extends to over 150 million customers globally. We thrive on bold thinking, disruptive energy and innovation, creating globally inclusive brands that celebrate individuality.As we continue to grow, we are seeking ambitious and dynamic leaders to shape the future of the fashion industry.The RoleAs Merchandising Director at SUMWON STUDIOS, you will own and execute the full merchandising vision and strategy across our portfolio of brands, combining strategic leadership with hands-on execution.We are seeking a high-energy, proactive, and forward-thinking individual who brings both commercial expertise and strong product knowledge. You will lead a talented team, drive innovation through AI integration and ensure that data-led decision-making guides every commercial move.This role requires both strategic vision and operational depth. It suits someone who can think big while remaining closely involved in the detail, guiding range planning, product performance and trading decisions with confidence and precision.Key ResponsibilitiesStrategic Leadership and VisionDevelop and deliver the end-to-end merchandising strategy across multiple global fashion brands.Translate brand goals into actionable, data-driven commercial plans that drive growth and profitability.Partner with leadership to shape long-term assortment, pricing and trading strategies.Champion innovation by embedding AI-led tools and predictive analytics into merchandising processes.Use your deep product knowledge to influence range architecture, assortment planning and brand positioning.Hands-On Trading and Commercial ExecutionLead weekly trade reviews, ensuring agile responses to sales trends, customer insights and market changes.Champion a buy now, wear now philosophy with a strong understanding of customer behaviour, trend movement and product lifecycle.Optimise pricing, promotions and markdown strategies to deliver strong commercial results.Stay close to product performance, combining data and intuition to drive effective trading decisions.AI-Driven Process EvolutionLead the transformation of merchandising systems by introducing automation and intelligent forecasting tools.Collaborate with Technology and Data teams to develop AI-driven models that improve planning, buying and trading accuracy.Continuously identify opportunities for process simplification and scalable, intelligent decision-making.Planning and Critical Path ManagementOversee the product lifecycle from concept to customer, ensuring efficiency, speed to market and flawless execution.Identify and mitigate risks across production, supply chain and launch timelines.Work closely with Design and Buying to ensure alignment between creative direction, product strategy and commercial objectives.Team Leadership and DevelopmentLead, mentor and inspire a team of Merchandisers and Planners, promoting a culture of curiosity, accountability and high performance.Encourage innovation, challenge conventions, and promote collaboration across Buying, Design, Marketing and Studio teams.Set clear goals and empower your team to think commercially, creatively and proactively.What you’ll bringAt least ten years of merchandising or planning experience within fast-paced, high-volume fashion retail.Proven experience at Head or Director level with the ability to balance strategic oversight and hands-on execution.A strong background and deep product knowledge across multiple fashion categories, with an understanding of consumer trends and brand identity.Exceptional commercial acumen supported by a data-driven approach to decision-making.A proven record of driving sales growth and improving margins through strong product and trading strategies.Experience using or implementing AI-powered tools in merchandising, or a strong understanding of how AI can transform planning and trading efficiency.Outstanding analytical and communication skills with the ability to translate complex data into clear action.A proactive, energetic and go-getter attitude with a passion for innovation and pace.What we'll bring25 days of annual leave, increasing to 30 after your first year 30% employee discount across all SUMWON STUDIOS brands Ongoing learning and development opportunities Company social events The coolest colleagues you can findWhy Join Us? SUMWON STUDIOS is redefining fast fashion with a forward-thinking approach. Join a a creative and ambitious team, and help us build a brand that resonates.