Fabric Merchandiser

Job Description

Key Responsibilities: 1. Vendor Management: Identify, evaluate, and onboard fabric suppliers and mills. Negotiate pricing, MOQs (Minimum Order Quantities), payment terms, and delivery schedules. Maintain strong relationships with suppliers. 2. Fabric Selection & Development: Source suitable fabrics based on design and production requirements. Work with suppliers to develop new fabric qualities, colours, and finishes. Ensure fabrics meet the required performance, durability, and aesthetic standards. 2. Cost Negotiation & Budgeting: Analyze market trends and raw material costs to optimize procurement. Negotiate the best pricing without compromising on quality and delivery timelines. Work within budget constraints while ensuring product profitability. 3. Quality Control & Compliance: Ensure fabrics meet quality standards (e.g. colour fastness, shrinkage, GSM including FPT reports.). 4. Production Coordination: Collaborate with design, merchandising, and production teams for fabric approvals. Ensure timely fabric deliveries to avoid production delays. Troubleshoot sourcing and supply chain issues. 5. Market Research & Trend Analysis: Stay updated on textile trends, new materials, and innovations. Explore sustainable and cost-effective fabric alternatives. 6. Fabric Knowledge: Understanding of various textiles, their properties, fibres, different types of prints and applications. 7. Negotiation Skills: Ability to negotiate pricing, terms, and contracts with suppliers. Supplier Relationship Management: Maintaining long-term partnerships with mills and vendors. Costing & Budgeting: Understanding cost breakdowns and optimizing expenses. Quality Compliance Awareness: Knowledge of industry quality standards and certifications. Strong Communication & Coordination: Liaising with multiple departments and external vendors. Problem-Solving Ability: Quick decision-making in case of fabric defects or delays. Would you like to focus on any specific aspect, such as improving sourcing efficiency or finding new suppliers