Deputy Manager - Buying & Merchandising (Apparel & Accessories)

We are seeking a buying and merchandising professional to support seasonal assortment planning, sourcing and product development for Skechers India’s apparel and accessories business, with a primary focus on the India-designed women’s sportswear and activewear range. The role will manage buying activities, vendor coordination, sample development, and assortment execution, working closely with cross-functional teams to deliver commercially relevant products within agreed timelines and quality standards. Designation: Deputy Manager Role: Buying & Merchandising Location: Andheri East (Mumbai) Department: Apparel & Accessories Experience: 6–8 years Reporting to: Senior Manager – B&M Role type: Individual Contributor Key Responsibilities Buying & Assortment Planning Develop seasonal assortments aligned with consumer preferences, market trends, brand direction, and business objectives. Plan the product mix across styles, sizes, colors, and price points, with particular emphasis on women’s apparel. Analyze historical sales, category performance, and market opportunities to recommend buying quantities and assortment changes. Support buying and merchandising for assigned accessories categories. Product Development & Sample Management Coordinate the development of India-designed collections with design, sourcing, and quality teams. Track samples, reviews, and approvals against seasonal development calendars. Review fabrics, trims, fit, construction, and product specifications with relevant teams to ensure alignment with brand requirements. Maintain accurate product information, assortment records and sample trackers. Sourcing & Vendor Coordination Work with domestic and import suppliers to identify suitable products and development capabilities. Negotiate costs, minimum order quantities and delivery timelines within approved commercial parameters. Coordinate purchase orders, production progress and deliveries, escalating risks promptly. Build effective vendor relationships and monitor supplier performance. Inventory & Category Performance Monitor sales, sell-through, stock availability and inventory ageing to identify opportunities and risks. Recommend replenishment, stock optimisation and markdown actions in coordination with planning and retail teams. Prepare regular buying and merchandising reports to support category decisions. Cross-functional Execution Collaborate with design, sourcing, quality, supply chain and retail teams to support seasonal launches. Ensure timely closure of development and delivery milestones. Resolve product, supplier and assortment issues to maintain business continuity. Qualifications & Experience Graduate or postgraduate qualification from NIFT. 6–8 years of relevant experience in apparel buying, merchandising, assortment planning and product development. Women’s apparel buying experience is mandatory. Experience in sportswear or activewear is preferred. Understanding of domestic and import supplier networks.