Unit Head-General Merchandise

Job Overview: 

The Unit Manager is responsible for overseeing all aspects of the General Merchandise commercial team, strategies, and plans and ensure its proper implementation. 

 

Duties and Responsibilities: 

Strategic Planning & Operational Effectiveness 

• Assist in identifying opportunities, developing strategies, presenting recommendations, and implementing programs to improve operational effectiveness, including process improvements, technology enhancements, change management, and training. 

• Assist in setting and controlling SOPs for related business functions in coordination with the Organization Development department. 

• Review and adapt the department structure in coordination with the Organization Development department to align with department strategies. 

• Develop work plans on Division/Category levels, covering future development plans at the company or division levels. 

Market Research & Competitive Analysis 

• Conduct market research to identify department trends, competitor behavior, and customer needs. 

• Develop plans and recommendations based on research to ensure the department remains competitive. 

• Attend international conventions periodically to identify industry trends and provide suggestions. 

• Ensure proper product positioning relative to competitors and industry standards. 

Sales & Profitability Management 

• Implement strategies that drive sales, margin, inventory optimization, and improve customer service. 

• Monitor the sales of each product and take corrective actions as needed to meet targets. 

• Abide by profitability margins set by upper management and oversee negative margin products, taking corrective action when necessary. 

• Identify and create opportunities to increase other operating incomes. 

• Ensure the set prices for categories under the department remain competitive in the market. 

Vendor & Supplier Management 

• Negotiate, approve, and manage contracts with suppliers. 

• Track orders and suppliers’ payments, including claims and rebate deductions. 

• Meet with suppliers to discuss sales, new releases, opportunities, and threats. 

• Ensure proper supplier relationships to maintain smooth operations and resolve any issues promptly. 

Product & Brand Management 

• Identify and select differentiated and exclusive offerings, services, brands, and promotions. 

• Handle brand management for developed and exclusive brands. 

• Develop plans for new products or services based on market research and customer feedback. 

• Execute and manage product assortment/selection based on the store’s concept. 

• Ensure the correct execution of promotional guidelines, product selection criteria, and pricing strategies. 

Inventory & Stock Management 

• Monitor and manage stock and service levels, product movement, aging, and allocations. 

• Control daily and periodic replenishment orders for local and foreign product supplies. 

• Ensure ordering processes and parameters are properly set to prevent overstock and wastage. 

Category Performance & Reviews 

• Initiate periodic category reviews on all levels (product, space, brand, supplier) as a tool to monitor performance and achieve targets. 

• Prepare a yearly Profit and Loss (P&L) statement by category to maintain optimal performance. 

Retail Space & Merchandising Management 

• Collaborate with the Retail Space Management department to set merchandising guidelines for the department. 

• Conduct occasional store visits to ensure alignment with company goals and merchandising standards. 

After-Sales & Customer Service 

• Closely oversee the after-sales function, maintaining a professional attitude toward suppliers and customers to ensure satisfaction. 

 

Team Management: 

• Maintain staff by recruiting, selecting, orienting, and training employees 

• Maintain staff job results by coaching, counseling, and disciplining employees 

• Provide on-going leadership and support to team 

• Resolve any staff issues and escalate any unresolved issue to superior 

• Ensure on-the-job training using training checklists 

• Recommend disciplinary action as needed following established policy 

• Control knowledge of procedures and ensure their strict implementation 

• Give clear responsibilities to the team 

• Organize and maintain departmental communication system that encourages staff participation 

• Manage shift schedule to include trainings, vacations, leaves, and backups Ensure department staff is informed of policy changes 

• Conduct timely performance evaluations and staff development 

• Involve the team in service and activities 

 

 

 

• Minimum of 8 years of experience in related field  

• Bachelor’s degree in Business Administration or any related field