Assistant Merchandiser

THE ROLE

At Debenhams Group, we are on a journey of transformation, revitalising our brand, culture, and connection with colleagues and customers alike. In a fast-changing retail environment, effective and authentic communication is vital to building trust, aligning our teams, and amplifying the impact of our work across internal and external audiences.

Our Assistant Merchandisers are crucial to the business as they ensure that all relevant stakeholders have accurate data which directly and consistently inform decisions relating to maximising profitability and contributing to overall business strategy and growth.

Our Assistant Merchandisers are dedicated, product focused, commercially sharp and critical in ensuring we have the right pieces to meet demand whilst keeping on point with the products we offer.

This role will be based out of our central Manchester office.

WHAT YOU'LL BE DOING

Key Responsibilities:

As an Assistant Merchandiser you will be responsible for:

• Trading the sales and stock performance at category level to meet and exceed sales targets, identifying opportunities and risks.
• Replenishing stock and maximising sales while managing mark down/promotions at product level and managing margin target.
• Intake cover and critical path management.
• Reporting directly into the head of merchandising and supporting the team by providing all adhoc/weekly/monthly detailed sales and stock reporting analysis.
• Weekly trade reports and present dept performance in the buying and merch trade meetings.
• Working closely with visual merchandisers ensuring maximum visibility for best sellers etc.
• Managing stock for TV ads, marketing and social launches.
• Developing and managing merchandise admin assistants within the team.
• Working with buyers to develop in season strategy, framework plans, in season reviewing and communicating performance of area and taking appropriate action to maximise profits.
• Managing purchase orders from raising right through to tracking/ booking into DC.

WHAT WE LOOK FOR

Your Skills, Knowledge and Experience:

As an Assistant Merchandiser you will be confident, pro-active, and able to work under pressure to meet strict deadlines. It is essential that you have:

• Previous experience of working as an Assistant Merchandiser or an MAA ready for the step up.
• Strong computer literacy skills – especially in Excel.
• Owner ship of Linecards/ Flow Lines.
• Analytical skills – confident in working with and extract insight from data.
• Strong decision making, time management skills and able to prioritise workload.
• The ability to excel in a fast-paced environment, prioritise effectively and keep up with the growing pace of the business.
• Good commercial knowledge – specifically on wider marketplace and broader business.
• Excellent organisational skills and attention to detail when managing booking dates and ensuring that intake and category targets are adhered to.

WORKING WITH US

At Debenhams Group we thrive on change, innovation, and pace. Every challenge is an opportunity, and every day is a chance to push boundaries. If you’re someone who embraces the unknown, thrives in a fast-moving, high-growth environment, and is ready to shape the future of retail, you’ll love it here. We want visionaries, disruptors, and doers—people who bring fresh thinking, relentless energy, and the drive to make an impact. 

WHY JOIN US

Our mission is to create a workplace where everyone is respected, individual differences are valued, and people can be themselves at work — without exception.

2025 was a year of significant change for the Group. 2026 is about bold moves, real results and unstoppable momentum. If that excites you, you belong at Debenhams Group.

Our benefits include (subject to level and eligibility):

• Highly competitive bonus scheme, company pension, share schemes, private medical cover and life assurance
• Access to an on-site gym and free weekly Pilates, yoga and fitness classes
• Discount across all brands
• Comprehensive wellbeing package
• Dog-friendly offices (in selected locations)
• Ongoing learning and development with strong internal progression
• On-site canteen serving breakfast, lunch, snacks and hot drinks
• Free season ticket loan

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