About the role

Job Description: Senior Merchandiser & New Product Development (NPD) – Jewellery

Position Overview:

This role combines analytical merchandising skills with creative product development capabilities, collaborating closely with design, production, sales, and marketing teams to deliver collections that meet market trends, brand aesthetics, and business objectives.

Key Responsibilities:

1. Merchandise Planning & Analysis

Develop seasonal merchandise plans based on sales data, category performance, and market trends.
Monitor weekly sell-through, stock levels, reorder needs, and assortment gaps.
Analyse sales KPIs (AUR, margins, category mix, channel performance) to optimize product offering.
Prepare buying budgets and assortment strategies for different channels (retail, online, wholesale).
Work with demand planning and supply chain to ensure accurate forecasts and inventory availability.

2. New Product Development (NPD)

Lead the full NPD cycle: concept brainstorming, design brief creation, sampling, cost negotiation, and production approval.
Collaborate with designers to build commercially relevant and trend-right jewellery collections.
Conduct market research on materials, consumer preferences, pricing strategies, and competitor offerings.
Manage sample development with vendors, ensuring quality, timely delivery, and alignment with brand standards.
Approve final designs, specifications, and BOMs for production.

3. Vendor & Production Coordination

Maintain strong relationships with manufacturers, artisans, and suppliers.
Review cost sheets, negotiate pricing, and ensure target margins are met.
Track production timelines and resolve issues related to quality, materials, or delays.
Ensure compliance with brand quality standards for metals, stones, plating, and finishes.

4. Range Building & Launch Management

Develop seasonal range plans, category structures, and SKU rationalization.
Coordinate with marketing for launch strategies, product descriptions, and visual merchandising.
Ensure each collection meets commercial targets and supports brand storytelling.
Prepare product decks, training materials, and collection overviews for internal teams.

5. Cross-Functional Collaboration

Work closely with sales teams to understand customer preferences and regional needs.
Partner with e-commerce teams to optimize online assortment, pricing, and product attributes.
Support retail teams with merchandising guidelines and product knowledge.
Liaise with finance on pricing, margins, and profitability analysis.

Key skills & Knowledge -

6-8 years of experience in merchandising or NPD, preferably in jewellery, accessories, or fashion.
Knowledge of CAD, 3D design, or jewellery prototyping (bonus).
Background in luxury, fine jewellery, or aspirational lifestyle brands.
Strong understanding of jewellery materials (metals, gemstones, plating, findings) and manufacturing processes.
Analytical mindset with strong Excel skills; ability to interpret sales data and identify opportunities.
Creative sensibility with trend awareness and an eye for detail.
Excellent communication and vendor management skills.
Ability to manage multiple projects and deadlines in a fast-paced environment.

Qualifications:

Any Graduate. NIFT passed out preferred.

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