- Company Name
- Fanatics
- Job Title
- VP, Merchandising
- Job Description
-
Job Title: VP, Merchandising
Role Summary:
Lead the product creation and merchandising strategy for Fanatics Commerce’s fan‑vertical businesses, driving revenue, margin targets, and omni‑channel excellence across licensed and branded apparel. Deliver a data‑driven, trend‑responsive product portfolio while building and motivating a high‑performance merchandising team.
Expectations:
- Own the full merchandising vision, from concept to consumer, ensuring alignment with financial objectives.
- Translate market insights into actionable product plans that meet revenue and profit targets.
- Influence cross‑functional partners (Design, Product Development, Sourcing, Marketing) to deliver an exceptional fan experience.
- Cultivate a culture of creativity, innovation, and continuous improvement within the merchandising organization.
Key Responsibilities:
- Develop and execute annual and seasonal product plans for all fan verticals, balancing premium and mass‑market opportunities.
- Plan, oversee, and optimize the entire product creation lifecycle—concept, color, pricing, sourcing, and launch—across multiple licensing rights (leagues, teams, brands).
- Analyze market trends, consumer behavior, and competitive landscape to identify new product opportunities and adjust assortment strategies.
- Set short‑term and long‑term financial goals; monitor P&L, inventory turns, and margin achievement.
- Approve final product recommendations based on rigorous data analysis and customer insight.
- Partner with Design, Product Development, and Sourcing to align product design, development timelines, and cost structures.
- Mentor and expand a world‑class merchandising team, promoting a collaborative, high‑performance culture.
- Champion innovation in merchandise strategy, enhancing brand differentiation and growth.
Required Skills:
- Strategic planning with proven P&L stewardship and margin optimization.
- Deep knowledge of US retail and consumer trends, especially in licensed sports apparel.
- Strong analytical mindset: proficiency in data analysis tools and interpretation of consumer data.
- Exemplary communication and cross‑functional influence; ability to build credibility with internal and external partners.
- Leadership experience in managing large teams and driving change in complex, fast‑moving environments.
- Supplier, sourcing, and category management acumen.
Required Education & Certifications:
- Bachelor’s degree in Business, Apparel, Merchandising, or related field.
- 10+ years of progressive management experience in licensed apparel, sporting goods, or retail buying/category management.
- Demonstrated success in retail and apparel industry with extensive licensed merchandise exposure.