Job Summary
The Senior Merchandiser – Product Development is responsible for managing the end-to-end development of shirt products, from concept to pre-production. This role ensures alignment with buyer requirements, cost targets, quality standards, and timelines while coordinating across design, sourcing, sampling, and production teams.
Key Responsibilities
1. Product Development
- Handle product development for woven shirts (formal, casual, fashion).
- Interpret buyer tech packs, samples, and design inputs.
- Develop proto, fit, and pre-production samples in coordination with the sampling team.
- Ensure accurate execution of styles as per buyer specifications.
2. Buyer Coordination
- Act as the primary point of contact for buyers during development stages.
- Clarify technical details, approvals, and comments.
- Provide regular updates on sample status, timelines, and issues.
3. Costing & Price Negotiation
- Prepare detailed garment costing (fabric, trims, CM, washing, finishing).
- Work with sourcing and production teams to optimize cost without compromising quality.
- Support negotiation with buyers to meet target margins.
4. Sourcing & Material Management
- Coordinate with fabric and trim suppliers for development.
- Ensure timely availability of materials for sampling.
- Evaluate alternative materials for cost or lead-time improvement.
5. Sampling Management
- Plan and track all stages of sampling (Proto, Fit, Size Set, PP samples).
- Ensure timely dispatch and approvals from buyers.
- Maintain sample quality and consistency.
6. Cross-functional Coordination
- Liaise with design, production, quality, and planning teams.
- Conduct pre-production meetings and ensure all approvals are in place.
- Ensure smooth handover from development to bulk production.
7. Quality & Compliance
- Ensure products meet buyer quality standards and specifications.
- Monitor sample workmanship and fitting issues.
- Ensure compliance with buyer and regulatory requirements.
8. Documentation & Reporting
- Maintain accurate records of styles, approvals, costing, and communications.
- Prepare development trackers and reports.
- Monitor TNA (Time & Action) plans for all styles.
Required Qualifications
- Bachelor’s degree in Fashion Technology, Apparel Production, Textile Engineering, or related field.
- 5–10 years of experience in merchandising/product development (shirts preferred).
Key Skills & Competencies
- Strong knowledge of shirt construction, fabrics, and finishes.
- Expertise in costing and negotiation.
- Excellent communication and buyer-handling skills.
- Strong coordination and problem-solving ability.
- Knowledge of garment manufacturing processes and timelines.
- Proficiency in MS Excel, ERP systems, and PLM tools.
Preferred Experience
- Experience working with export buyers/brands.
- Knowledge of international quality standards.
- Exposure to high-volume garment factories.
Key Performance Indicators (KPIs)
- On-time sample submission & approvals.
- Cost accuracy and margin achievement.
- Development lead time reduction.
- Buyer satisfaction and repeat business.
- Sample quality and approval rate.
Pay: ₹65,000.00 - ₹70,000.00 per month
Benefits:
Work Location: In person
