Senior Merchandising Manager
Position Overview
A global performance footwear and lifestyle brand is seeking a Senior Merchandising Manager to lead merchandising strategy in the Japan market across both Direct-to-Consumer (DTC) and Wholesale channels. This role will own long-term assortment planning, seasonal execution, and team leadership while serving as a key connector between local and global stakeholders.
The position plays a critical role in balancing commercial results with brand positioning, consumer insights, and marketplace trends.
Key Responsibilities
1. Long-Term Merchandising Strategy
Own and manage the omni-channel go-to-market calendar, ensuring timely delivery of all seasonal milestones
Lead seasonal assortment planning and line selection in alignment with revenue, margin, and brand objectives
Set and manage seasonal financial targets for DTC channels, including e-commerce, retail stores, and outlets
Define assortment breadth, style and color depth, and pricing structure based on historical performance and market insights
Ensure wholesale assortments and financial plans support annual revenue goals while maintaining clear channel differentiation
Provide structured seasonal commercial input to global product teams, supported by consumer and market analysis
Monitor sell-through, inventory, and performance to guide in-season trading and optimization decisions
Develop and oversee long-range marketplace and assortment plans spanning multiple years
2. Cross-Functional Leadership & Collaboration
Serve as the primary point of contact between the Japan team and global merchandising, product, marketing, and planning functions
Build strong working relationships with internal teams including DTC, Sales, Integrated Planning, Finance, Operations, and Marketing
Partner closely with sales and DTC leaders to align targets and execute seasonal merchandising strategies
Influence cross-functional decision-making through data-driven insights, commercial judgment, and clear communication
Drive alignment and consensus across teams with differing priorities and timelines
3. Team Leadership & Talent Development
Lead, mentor, and develop the local brand merchandising team
Provide hands-on coaching with a deep understanding of merchandising functions and seasonal workflows
Clearly set priorities and manage multiple seasons simultaneously
Support performance management, career development, and succession planning
Foster a collaborative, high-performance culture aligned with company values
Qualifications & Experience
Bachelor’s degree required
Extensive experience in product merchandising within sporting goods or lifestyle footwear
Proven people management experience leading and developing teams
Strong background in long-term assortment planning and marketplace strategy using quantitative and qualitative analysis
Experience managing wholesale accounts across sporting goods, sneaker, or fashion channels
Demonstrated ability to partner with finance teams on pricing, margin, and profitability analysis
Experience working closely with global or overseas teams
Skills & Competencies
Strong business communication skills in English, both written and verbal
High analytical capability with strong numerical accuracy and attention to detail
Excellent planning, organizational, and problem-solving skills
Strong interpersonal and negotiation abilities with a collaborative mindset
Deep understanding of product trends and consumer purchasing behavior
Knowledge of costing, product safety, packaging, quality assurance, and compliance
Proactive, adaptable, and focused on continuous operational improvement
Advanced proficiency in Microsoft Excel and standard office tools
Willingness to travel domestically and internationally as required
Leadership Expectations
Leaders are expected to demonstrate inclusive leadership, collaboration across teams, and a commitment to continuous improvement, while fostering an environment where diverse perspectives are valued and teamwork drives performance.
Additional Information
Outside employment or side business activities are not permitted
Role operates under a confidential recruitment process