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.
We're looking for a talented Merchandiser to join our team at Karen Millen. In this trading-focused and highly collaborative role, you'll work closely with the Buying team and regularly present performance updates to our Senior Leadership team. You’ll take full ownership of planning and trading across your designated product areas, driving commercial success through strategic insight and analysis.
This role will be based out of our Central London office.
WHAT YOU'LL BE DOING
Following a period of structural change, brand repositioning, and workforce transformation, you’ll build strong, transparent relationships across the Buying and Merchandising teams, grounded in accurate and insightful data. You’ll support the wider Merchandising function to ensure the buying strategy is effectively managed within the agreed business goals. This includes maintaining key frameworks, controls, and capabilities to drive both long-term planning and in-season trading — all aimed at maximising commercial performance.
Key Responsibilities:
- Lead on reporting and presenting at weekly and monthly trade meetings
- Take full ownership of all Karen Millen categories, proactively managing sales, profitability, and stock levels
- Analyse daily and weekly sales performance to inform decisions on rebuys and markdowns
- Identify over- and under-performing products, implementing trading actions to maximise opportunities and minimise risk
- Manage departmental WSSI by accurately forecasting demand, OTB, returns, AVSP, and margin
- Oversee critical path management, taking timely action to resolve any issues
- Prepare and deliver trading reports and packs, while also identifying and implementing reporting improvements across the Buying & Merchandising function
- Drive your department forward with a strategic and structured approach through robust planning and framework development
- Work collaboratively with Buying and Design teams and continue to strengthen supplier relationships
- Mentor and coach junior team members, supporting their development
- Demonstrate a clear understanding of how your role contributes to the wider business strategy
WHAT WE LOOK FOR
Your Skills, Knowledge and Experience
- Advanced Excel skills
- Strong commercial awareness and business acumen
- A sharp eye for fashion and a deep understanding of current trends driving sales
- Excellent communication and interpersonal skills
- Highly organised with strong attention to detail
- A true brand ambassador who leads by example
- Proactive in attending training, meetings, and other events as required by management
- A collaborative team player, willing to support beyond core responsibilities when needed
- Committed to continuous improvement and expanding knowledge of the wider business
- Positive, passionate, and enthusiastic — a natural leader within the team
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
- Discount across all brands
- Comprehensive wellbeing package
- Ongoing learning and development with strong internal progression
- Free season ticket loan
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