Assistant 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 commercially aware, detail-driven Assistant Merchandiser to join our dynamic team. You'll play a key role in supporting the planning and trading of your department, owning reporting, data analysis, and intake management while influencing commercial decisions with real impact. This is a fantastic opportunity to take your next step in Merchandising and grow in a fast-paced, high-performing environment.

This role will be based out of our central Manchester office.

WHAT YOU'LL BE DOING Key Responsibilities:

• Planning & Forecasting: Maintain and analyse WSSI and KPIs to support in forecasting and driving commercial actions. Track performance, monitor OTB, and contribute to monthly forecasts.
• Critical Path & Trading: Support the team in trading in-season and maintaining the category critical path. Use data, past trends, and competitor analysis to drive decisions and actions.
• Rebuy Management: Independently review product performance to identify rebuy opportunities, support intake strategy, and ensure availability of key and core lines.
• Stock & Intake: Proactively manage stock levels and intake, supporting accurate order placement, phasing, and seasonal planning. Monitor supplier delivery schedules and adapt intake strategies accordingly.
• Team Leadership: Support and guide junior team members, lead on MAA development, and deputise for the Junior Merchandiser/Merchandiser when needed.
• Reporting & Analysis: Deliver accurate weekly trade reports, line cards, and ad-hoc analysis to support business decisions. Own the accuracy of attribution and data management across the department.

WHAT WE LOOK FOR Your Skills, Knowledge and Experience

• Experience working in a merchandising role, ideally within a fast-paced retail or fashion environment
• Strong analytical skills with a commercial mindset and attention to detail
• Confident using WSSI and forecasting tools, with solid Excel and data manipulation abilities
• Clear communication skills, both written and verbal, with the ability to work cross-functionally
• Organised and proactive, able to manage multiple priorities and deadlines
• A team player who enjoys mentoring others and sharing best practices
• Passionate about product, trends, and driving performance through smart decision-making

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

• Highly competitive bonus scheme, company pension, share schemes, private medical cover and life assurance
• Access to an on-site gym and free weekly Pilates, yoga and fitness classes
• 20% discount across all brands
• Comprehensive wellbeing package
• Dog-friendly offices (in selected locations)
• Ongoing learning and development with strong internal progression
• On-site canteen serving breakfast, lunch, snacks and hot drinks
• Free season ticket loan