Urbansole, one of Pakistan’s growing footwear and apparel brands, is seeking an experienced DM-Merchandiser (Sportswear/Apparel) to join its team in Lahore. This opportunity is ideal for merchandising professionals who have experience in apparel production, vendor management, sourcing, and product development within the sportswear industry.
The company is looking for candidates who can manage merchandising operations from product development to final delivery while ensuring quality, profitability, and timely execution.
About Urbansole
Urbansole has established itself as a recognized Pakistani footwear and lifestyle brand known for combining comfort, quality, and modern fashion trends. As the company continues to expand its product offerings, including sportswear and apparel, it requires skilled merchandising professionals who can help bridge the gap between design, sourcing, production, and retail operations.
Joining Urbansole offers professionals the opportunity to work in a dynamic retail and manufacturing environment while contributing to the growth of a well-known local brand.
Position Overview
DM-Merchandiser (Sportswear/Apparel)
A Merchandiser plays a critical role in ensuring that products are developed, sourced, manufactured, and delivered according to market demand, quality standards, and business objectives.
The selected candidate will oversee merchandising activities related to sportswear and apparel products, coordinating with multiple departments and external vendors to ensure smooth operations and successful product launches.
Job Location
Location: DHA Phase 8, Lahore, Pakistan
Candidates should be willing to work from the company’s office and coordinate closely with internal teams and suppliers.
Key Responsibilities
1. Manage End-to-End Merchandising Activities
The successful candidate will oversee the complete merchandising cycle, including:
- Product development
- Material sourcing
- Sampling
- Production planning
- Delivery management
This requires close monitoring of every stage of the product lifecycle.
2. Coordinate with Cross-Functional Teams
The role involves regular collaboration with:
- Design teams
- Production departments
- Sourcing teams
- Quality assurance personnel
Strong teamwork and communication skills are essential for ensuring project success.
3. Product Range Development
The merchandiser will help develop sportswear collections that align with:
- Current market trends
- Consumer preferences
- Seasonal demand
- Company branding strategies
Understanding the apparel market and fashion trends is important for this responsibility.
4. Vendor Management and Communication
The position requires regular interaction with suppliers and manufacturers, including:
- Negotiating pricing
- Discussing production schedules
- Managing vendor relationships
- Following up on purchase orders
Strong negotiation skills can contribute to cost savings and improved supplier performance.
5. Order Execution and Production Follow-Up
The merchandiser will monitor orders from initial sampling through bulk production to ensure:
- Quality compliance
- Timely production
- Accurate specifications
- On-time completion
6. Costing and Budget Monitoring
Responsibilities include:
- Monitoring product costs
- Evaluating profit margins
- Managing budgets
- Supporting pricing decisions
Understanding cost structures is critical for maintaining profitability.
7. Quality Control and Issue Resolution
The role requires ensuring that products meet established quality standards and addressing production challenges before they impact delivery schedules.
8. Timeline and Delivery Management
Merchandisers are expected to:
- Track production milestones
- Monitor delivery schedules
- Coordinate shipments
- Minimize delays
Timely delivery is essential for maintaining customer satisfaction and retail performance.
9. Reporting and Performance Analysis
The selected candidate will prepare:
- Merchandising reports
- Production updates
- Vendor performance reports
- Sales and inventory insights
These reports help management make informed business decisions.
Required Qualifications
Education
Candidates should possess:
| Qualification | Requirement |
|---|---|
| Degree Level | Bachelor’s or Master’s Degree |
| Preferred Fields | Supply Chain Management, Business Administration, or related discipline |
While merchandising experience is the primary requirement, relevant academic qualifications provide a strong foundation for the role.
Experience Requirements
Applicants must have:
- Minimum 3 years of experience in apparel or sportswear merchandising
Experience working with apparel manufacturing, sourcing, or fashion retail organizations will be highly valuable.
Essential Skills
Product Knowledge
Candidates should have strong knowledge of:
- Fabrics
- Trims and accessories
- Garment construction techniques
- Sportswear manufacturing processes
This expertise helps ensure product quality and efficient production management.
Communication Skills
The role involves frequent communication with:
- Suppliers
- Manufacturers
- Internal departments
- Management teams
Strong verbal and written communication skills are therefore essential.
Analytical Skills
Merchandisers often analyze:
- Costing structures
- Market trends
- Sales performance
- Production efficiency
The ability to interpret data and make informed decisions is highly beneficial.
Coordination and Project Management
Managing multiple projects simultaneously requires:
- Organization
- Prioritization
- Problem-solving abilities
- Attention to detail
Adaptability
The apparel industry often operates under tight deadlines and changing market conditions. Candidates should be comfortable working in a fast-paced environment.
Who Should Apply?
This opportunity is ideal for:
- Apparel merchandisers seeking career advancement.
- Sportswear industry professionals.
- Product development specialists.
- Supply chain and sourcing professionals.
- Candidates experienced in garment production and vendor management.
Career Growth Opportunities
Working as a DM-Merchandiser can lead to future roles such as:
- Senior Merchandiser
- Merchandising Manager
- Product Development Manager
- Sourcing Manager
- Supply Chain Manager
- Category Manager
- Operations Manager
The experience gained in merchandising can open doors to leadership positions within retail, fashion, sourcing, and manufacturing organizations.
How to Prepare for the Interview
Candidates may be asked questions related to:
Apparel and Sportswear Knowledge
- Fabric types and applications
- Garment manufacturing processes
- Quality control procedures
- Product development cycles
Merchandising Processes
- Vendor management
- Costing and pricing
- Production planning
- Inventory management
Problem-Solving Scenarios
Interviewers may present situations involving:
- Production delays
- Supplier issues
- Cost challenges
- Quality concerns
Candidates should be prepared to discuss how they would handle such situations.
Documents to Prepare
Applicants should have the following ready:
- Updated CV/Resume
- Educational Certificates
- Experience Certificates
- CNIC Copy
- Portfolio of relevant work (if available)
- Professional References
How to Apply
Interested candidates can submit their applications via email:
Important Instructions
- Mention “DM-Merchandiser (Sportswear/Apparel)” in the email subject line.
- Ensure your resume highlights merchandising achievements and relevant industry experience.
- Verify all contact information before sending your application.
Only shortlisted candidates will be contacted for the initial interview process.
Why Consider This Opportunity?
This position offers several benefits for experienced merchandising professionals:
- Opportunity to work with a growing lifestyle and apparel brand.
- Exposure to product development and sourcing operations.
- Involvement in sportswear and fashion merchandising.
- Career growth opportunities within the retail and apparel industry.
- Experience collaborating with cross-functional teams and suppliers.
Final Thoughts
The DM-Merchandiser (Sportswear/Apparel) position at Urbansole is an excellent opportunity for professionals with experience in apparel merchandising, sourcing, and production management. The role combines product development, vendor coordination, budgeting, quality assurance, and operational planning, making it ideal for individuals seeking a challenging and rewarding career in the fashion and sportswear industry.
To apply for this job email your details to ba625885@gmail.com