Our client, a well-established player which designs and distributes fashion accessories, is looking for a Product Line Manager/Merchandiser - Bags, based in Jakarta.

You will work closely with the Director of the Company and functionnaly report to the COO. Daily interactions with the Creative Director and his team of Designers, as well as the Marketing Manager and the Head of Sales.

Main objective: The Product Line Manager/Merchandiser will lead the development and be directly responsible for executing a global ‘go-to-market’ product strategy.  

You will partner with the Director of the Company and various cross functional partners, namely the Creative Director, the Head of Merchandising, Marketing Director and the relevant Business Unit Managers, to develop short and long-term strategic plans for various bags categories. 

You will be responsible for introducing innovative and profitable products that will entice the consumer while developing seasonal initiatives and line plans. 

You will also construct long-term business plans and drive to achieve these plans.  You must be capable of utilizing market knowledge to provide clear product direction to Design resources and work cross-functionally to develop product lines, meet key dates, and achieve net sales, net margin, and brand objectives.

Key Responsibilities:

Consumer Understanding

• Develop a deep understanding of target consumer groups within the Bags market with a primary focus on key revenue generating markets like Indonesia and Philippines.
• Be trend aware both inside and outside the industry.  Know how trends affect consumer behaviors.
• Guide product direction based on consumer understanding, needs assessment, trends and insights.

Marketplace / Channel Management

• Thorough knowledge of competitive landscape requiring deep understanding of competing brand strengths, weaknesses and market position.
• Thorough knowledge and understanding of consumer nuances
• Demonstrate direct selling understanding, awareness and opportunity assessment capability.
• Develop regionally relevant line plans and product strategies based on market knowledge to address/maximize opportunities.

Line Planning & Management

• Possess a strong Business acumen, leadership skills and bottom line accountability.
• Direct involvement in the Product Development process.  Effectively lead, communicate and execute multiple seasonal plans through the process.
• Articulate product briefs that inspire design to create better product solutions that consumer are willing to buy !
• Create, lead and articulate line planning skills and vision.  Ensure the alignment of design and development to specified margin goals.
• Set pricing in line with target margin goals, competitive set and consumer acceptance.
• Manage line plans and line lists.
• Be an effective and impactful partner with design, development, sales management and marketing through the development process.

Leadership/Cultural Responsibilities:

• Contribute to an environment of trust and mutual respect.
• Maintain a strong commitment to teamwork and concern for others.
• Seek growth and learning opportunities.
• Maintain a high level of personal responsibility and ownership.
• Use effective communication and listening skills.
• Maintain a high level of personal accountability and integrity.

• Bachelor’s  Degree in Business, Marketing or Merchandising preferred or equivalent combination of education and experience.
• Minimum of 5 years of product line management experience or product merchandising experience, within the Asia Market (mainly Indonesia, Philippines, Malaysia, Vietnam)
• Demonstrated knowledge of the bags market and product development.
• Proven success in range planning and forecasting.
• Proven experience in market research and analysis.
• Excellent presentation and communication skills.
• Strong analytical and organizational skills
• Fluent in English

Note that only short-listed candidates will be notified. Thank you for your understanding.