Icebreaker is looking for an exceptional Sr Manager, Global Product Merchandising to join our team based in Stabio, Switzerland.
Driven by the belief that nature has the answers, we provide natural performance alternatives to synthetic-based apparel, to create a healthier and more sustainable future for our species and the planet. We're passionate about connecting people to natural alternatives.
Let’s Talk about the Role
As Senior Manager, Global Product Merchandising, you will drive product excellence by leading and unifying the Merchandising Business Analysis and Product Merchandising teams in the execution of the icebreaker product line through the GTM process from concept to finished goods ensuring alignment with the brand strategy, global business needs, sourcing capabilities and quality standards.
This role leads the consumer-centric planning, briefing, pricing and GTM execution of industry leading product to meet critical business and timeline expectations, collaborating cross functionally with a multi-season time horizon perspective.
A key leader in the product creation team you will support and enable the Global Product Director’s strategic vision and inspire your team, unlocking their potential to turn product concepts into reality to drive business growth.
How You Will Make a Difference
Leadership & Oversight:
Provide visionary leadership for the Merchandising Business Analysis and Product Merchandising functions. Develop and implement guidelines and processes to ensure the successful delivery of products that drive the brand’s strategic and commercial objectives. Support the personal development of the Product Merchandising associates, through coaching and by providing opportunities for growth with a focus on product marketplace knowledge & category expertise.
End-to-End Product Excellence:
Oversee the complete product lifecycle, translating consumer and marketplace insights through clear briefs and guiding execution with an emphasis on profitability and efficiency to ensure products meet the strategic business targets. Maintain a long-range outlook, proactively identifying new commercial opportunities and managing product lifecycles to ensure products are continually upgraded, enhanced and the best they can be, aligned with Icebreaker’s performance, sustainability, and quality standards.
Cross-Functional Collaboration:
Serve as the operational interface between internal departments (Design, Product Development, Supply Planning, Marketing) and external stakeholders (Regional Merchandising and Sales teams). Establish strong working relationships, facilitate transparent communication and collaboration to ensure alignment on product strategies, timelines, forecasting and positioning.
Process Optimisation & Best Practices:
Lead the implementation of the global product strategy ensuring cross-functional seasonal alignment in executing the end-to-end GTM process and ensuring that on-time completion of all critical deadlines and required inputs/outputs is achieved. Prepare compelling seasonal product assortment plans and pricing architectures through the formulation of product briefs that meet revenue and margin targets. Be the consumer expert and (in partnership with regional merchandising) proactively gather marketplace insights to inform, continuously improve and validate product direction.
Stakeholder Management:
Develop and maintain strong relationships with the Regional Merchandising teams. Take ownership of the introduction of new icebreaker products, ensuring clear and concise direction to design and development teams through the briefing and the product creation process. Deliver inspiring product presentations to support the GTM process and empower regional stakeholders (merchandising, sales and marketing teams) with the seasonal product strategy and new product features and benefits.
Reporting & Strategic Input:
Report directly to the Global Product Director, providing regular updates on the team’s progress against GTM timelines, process improvements, and cross-functional initiatives. Contribute to high-level strategic planning and decision-making to deliver the brand’s tactical and commercial objectives.
Skills for Success
Vision:
A forward-thinking mindset to anticipate consumer and market trends in sustainable outdoor performance apparel which inform merchandising strategies and concepts.
Values:
A commitment to sustainability, an innovative, consumer-centric approach to product creation, detail oriented with an appreciation of high-quality and aesthetic standards in execution.
Expertise:
In-depth understanding of data analysis, line planning, briefing, costing and forecasting processes. Deep understanding of PLM systems and spreadsheet creation/management (Microsoft Excel).
Communication:
Excellent interpersonal and presentation skills with the ability to influence and facilitate effective collaboration and negotiation between internal and external stakeholders ensuring alignment and transparency across all levels.
Agility: Expertise in managing complex, multi-phase projects with a keen understanding of go to market strategy, agile methodologies, and process optimization. Flexibility to work and travel in an international context across regions and associated time zones, at times requiring meeting attendance early mornings or evenings.
Education & Experience
A minimum of 10 years of progressive experience in product development and merchandising roles within the apparel industry, with at least 5 years in a management position. Experience in the outdoor performance or sustainable apparel sector is highly preferred.
High level of computer literacy and an affinity for technology; proficient in Microsoft Office (Excel & PowerPoint) with a deep understanding Product Line Management (Enovia, Flex) solutions.
What’s in it For You
We’re in the business of unleashing human potential, driven by the ideas, energy and commitment of our people. That’s why we offer comprehensive benefits that encourage mental, physical and financial well-being for all VF associates. When it comes to benefits, we’re the total package.
Free to Be, Inclusion & Diversity
As a purpose-led, performance driven company, we strive to foster a culture of belonging based on respect, connection, openness and authenticity. We are committed to building and maintaining a workplace that celebrates the diversity of our associates, allowing them to bring their authentic selves to work every day.
As an equal opportunity and affirmative action employer, VF is committed to support disadvantaged groups whilst providing equal opportunities for both VF associates and applicants alike.
If you like what you have read and want to join our team then we would like to hear from you!