Job Overview:

The Head of Merchandising is responsible for managing and optimizing the Merchandising and Supply Chain processes across the entire pharmacy chain. This position will lead the Merchandising Strategy, oversee supplier relationships, manage purchasing budgets, and ensure the timely availability of high-quality pharmaceutical products and supplies. The Head of Merchandising will play a vital role in driving cost savings, ensuring regulatory compliance, and supporting the overall business objectives of the pharmacy chain.  

Key Responsibilities:

Merchandising Strategy:

• Develop and implement a comprehensive merchandising strategy aligned with the company’s vision to provide accessible, quality healthcare products across all stores.
• Conduct regular market analysis to identify trends and forecast product demand, ensuring a balanced product mix that meets customer needs and maximizes profitability.
• Create and oversee the execution of promotional strategies and seasonal merchandising plans that boost visibility and sales, while enhancing the overall shopping experience.
• Regularly evaluate and adjust merchandising strategies to optimize product placement, shelf space, and in-store visual standards, ensuring a consistent and compelling presentation across all locations.

Vendor and Supplier Management:

• Establish and maintain strong, collaborative relationships with a network of reliable suppliers to secure quality products and advantageous terms.
• Lead negotiations with vendors, focusing on achieving favorable pricing, payment terms, and exclusivity deals that benefit the company’s cost structure and customer pricing.
• Implement a rigorous supplier evaluation and compliance program to ensure that all products meet regulatory standards and company quality benchmarks.
• Monitor vendor performance closely and initiate supplier diversification strategies to reduce dependency on single sources, ensuring a resilient supply chain.

Category Management:

• Lead the planning and execution of category management initiatives, ensuring the right product assortment that aligns with customer needs and enhances the pharmacy’s competitive positioning.
• Oversee inventory management and replenishment strategies to maintain optimal stock levels, preventing both overstock and stockout situations.
• Conduct regular category performance reviews and adjust product offerings based on sales data, seasonality, and emerging trends to maximize sales and category growth.
• Collaborate with the marketing team to develop targeted promotions for key categories, fostering customer engagement and driving category-specific sales.

Collaboration:

• Work closely with store managers to ensure consistent product availability, align merchandising efforts with store-specific needs, and gather feedback on customer preferences.
• Partner with the buying team to synchronize product sourcing, sales forecasting, and pricing strategies to achieve sales targets and profitability goals.
• Coordinate with the marketing department to align in-store promotions with online and external marketing campaigns, enhancing brand presence and customer loyalty.
• Collaborate with the finance and operations teams to manage budgets, forecast expenses, and optimize resources for efficient and cost-effective merchandising execution.

Data-driven Decisions:

• Leverage data analytics to evaluate customer purchasing patterns, sales trends, and inventory turnover rates, enabling data-informed decisions for product selection and pricing adjustments.
• Use customer insights and feedback to refine product offerings and tailor merchandising strategies to address evolving customer needs and preferences.
• Implement and utilize advanced merchandising software and tools to streamline decision-making processes, improve accuracy in demand forecasting, and support strategic planning.
• Regularly report on key performance indicators (KPIs) related to merchandising, providing actionable insights to senior management and adjusting strategies based on performance metrics.

 

Key Requirements:

• Industry Experience: Minimum of 5 years in pharmacy, healthcare retail, or a related field, with knowledge of prescription and over-the-counter products.
• Negotiation Skills: Proven ability to negotiate with vendors and secure favorable terms that align with budget goals and quality standards.
• Analytical Mindset: Comfortable using data to drive decisions, adapt strategies, and identify emerging customer needs and product trends.
• Ethical and Motivated: Aligned with our values and the startup mindset; should be highly motivated by growth opportunities and excited by ambitious goals.
• Alignment with Company Values: Given the nature of our investment and our ties with family-oriented and ethical business practices, the candidate should demonstrate high ethical standards and integrity