Description: The Export Lead / Head Merchandising will be responsible for heading the companys export business, specifically OEM and private label exports to large global retailers and brands such as Walmart, IKEA, Lowes, Target, Costco, and similar international customers.

The role demands strategic ownership of export merchandising, end-to-end customer management, and independent handling of large-volume OEM export accounts.

Key Responsibilities:

1. Export & Business Leadership:

- Head and drive the OEM export business for Home & Kitchen Appliances.

- Own P&L responsibility for export merchandising operations.

- Independently manage high-value export turnover with global retailers and OEM customers.

- Develop and execute export growth strategies aligned with international market requirements.

2. Customer & Account Management:

- Act as the single-point owner for key OEM export customers (e.g., IKEA, Walmart, Lowes, etc.).

- Lead price negotiations, product costing, and margin optimization.

- Build and sustain long-term relationships with global buying teams and sourcing offices.

- Ensure compliance with customer-specific standards, audits, and ethical sourcing norms.

3. Merchandising & Product Development:

- Lead end-to-end merchandising lifecycle from inquiry to shipment.

- Coordinate product development, sampling, approvals, and commercialization.

- Ensure alignment with international design, quality, safety, and compliance standards.

- Collaborate closely with design, R&D, sourcing, quality, and production teams.

4. Operations & Execution:

- Oversee order execution, production planning coordination, and shipment timelines.

- Monitor supply chain efficiency to ensure on-time and in-full (OTIF) deliveries.

- Proactively manage risks related to quality, delivery, and compliance.

5. Team Leadership:

- Build, mentor, and lead a high-performing export merchandising team.

- Set clear KPIs and performance benchmarks for the team.

Requirements:

1. Minimum 15 years of experience in Merchandising within the Home & Kitchen / Housewares / Appliances segment.

2. At least last 5 years of experience independently handling OEM export business.

3. Proven track record of managing minimum export turnover of INR 200 Crores annually.

4. Hands-on experience working with large global retailers such as IKEA, Walmart, Lowes, or equivalent.

5. Strong understanding of OEM/private label export models.

Skills & Competencies:

1. Strong leadership and strategic thinking abilities

2. Deep knowledge of export merchandising and global retail requirements

3. Excellent negotiation, costing, and commercial acumen

4. Strong communication and stakeholder management skills

5. High level of ownership and execution excellence

Age Criteria:

Age not above 45 years

Location: Bangalore