Head - Merchandising - Quick Commerce/FMCG

Description:

The Head of Merchandising will drive the merchandising strategy and execution for the sell side operations, ensuring optimal assortment, pricing, and inventory mix to maximize sales and profitability. This role requires a strong operational and analytical leader who understands the dynamics of quick commerce and hyperlocal retail.

Key Responsibilities

- Develop and implement the overall merchandising strategy aligned with business goals and customer needs in a hyper-competitive quick commerce environment.

- Lead category selection, assortment planning, pricing strategies, and promotional activities to drive revenue growth and market share.

- Collaborate closely with supply chain, procurement, marketing, and business heads to ensure seamless product availability and customer experience.

- Use data analytics and market insights to optimize SKU selection, manage inventory turnover, and reduce wastage.

- Build, mentor, and manage a high-performing merchandising team, fostering cross-functional collaboration and innovation.

- Monitor competitor activities, market trends, and consumer preferences to keep the assortment relevant and competitive.

- Own forecasting, demand planning, and margin optimization processes to support operational efficiency and profitability.

- Lead vendor negotiations and relationships to secure the best quality products, pricing, and credit terms.

- Establish robust merchandising KPIs and reporting mechanisms to track performance and identify improvement areas.

- Drive continuous process improvements to scale merchandising operations in a fast-paced startup environment.

Qualifications & Skills

- 8-10 years of progressive merchandising experience in quick commerce, e-grocery, or related fast-moving consumer goods (FMCG) sectors.

- Strong understanding of merchandising dynamics specific to quick commerce, such as assortment breadth, SKU rationalization, and demand variability.

- Proven ability to manage end-to-end merchandising operations including category management, pricing, and supplier management.

- Data-driven decision-maker with advanced excel skills, familiarity with BI tools, and keen analytical capabilities.

- Experience managing cross-functional teams and working closely with supply chain, marketing, and finance.

- Excellent communication, negotiation, and stakeholder management skills.

- Startup mindset with the agility to operate in a rapidly evolving environment.

- Bachelors degree in Business, Marketing, Supply Chain, or related field; MBA preferred.