Merchandising Director, SEA TW

Regional Merchandising & Product Director Department: Product Team Reports to: Managing Director, APAC Location: APAC office in Hong Kong (with travel across Asia as required) Position Summary The Director, Merchandising & Product Development is a pivotal leadership role based in Hong Kong, acting as the critical bridge between global design vision, commercial strategy, and supply chain execution. This role is responsible for developing and implementing the seasonal merchandising and assortment strategy, managing the end-to-end product development process, and ensuring product lines are profitable, commercially viable, and delivered on time. The ideal candidate is a strategic thinker with deep expertise in softlines merchandising and a strong grasp of the global sourcing landscape. Key Responsibilities

• Assortment Planning & Merchandising Strategy
• Develop and execute the seasonal merchandise strategy and assortment plan for designated categories (Headwear & Apparel), aligned with regional sales forecasts, market trends, and financial targets (sales, margin, inventory).
• Conduct market analysis, trend research, competitor benchmarking, and sales performance reviews to identify opportunities and gaps in the assortment.
• Define product architecture, including price points, silhouettes, colour stories, and key item strategies.
• Present line plans, range architectures, and product strategies to senior leadership and cross-functional teams.
• Product Design & Development Management
• Partner closely with local and regional Design teams to translate creative concepts into commercially viable products.
• Lead the product development process from initial tech pack creation through to sample approval, ensuring design integrity is maintained while adhering to cost targets and manufacturing capabilities.
• Manage the sample review process, providing concise and actionable feedback to designers and suppliers on fit, construction, quality, and costing.
• Drive material and trim selection, leveraging local knowledge of the APAC supply market to source innovative and cost-effective components.
• Costing & Margin Management
• Own the cost negotiation process with suppliers and factories to achieve target FOB costs and maintain gross margin goals.
• Analyse cost breakdowns and identify opportunities for cost engineering and value engineering without compromising quality.
• Develop and manage the category Open-to-Buy (OTB) in collaboration with finance and planning teams.
• Cross-Functional Leadership & Communication
• Serve as the primary point of contact in APAC for global Product, Design, and Marketing teams, ensuring clear and consistent communication.
• Collaborate with Planning, Logistics, and QC teams to ensure a smooth handoff from development to production and timely delivery to distribution centres.
• Lead and mentor a team of merchandisers, product managers, and developers, fostering a culture of excellence and continuous improvement.
• Supply Chain & Vendor Management
• Build and maintain strong, strategic relationships with key suppliers and manufacturing partners globally.
• Monitor and report on factory performance regarding sample deadlines, quality, and compliance.
• Proactively identify and mitigate risks within the supply chain that could impact delivery or quality. Requirements
• Bachelor's degree in Fashion Merchandising, Business, Textiles, or a related field is a plus.
• 8+ years of progressive experience in merchandising and product development, with at least 3 years in a senior management role.
• Essential: Deep, proven experience within the headwear and/or apparel industry, with a strong understanding of fabric, construction, and manufacturing processes.
• Essential: Based in Hong Kong with extensive experience working with global factories and suppliers.
• Fluency in Mandarin and English is required.
• Demonstrated success in developing product assortments and managing a product category from concept to delivery.
• Strong financial acumen with expertise in costing, margin analysis, and budget management.
• Excellent negotiation, communication, and presentation skills in both English and Mandarin.
• Proficiency in PLM systems and Microsoft Office Suite.
• Ability to travel domestically and internationally as required. Competencies
• Strategic Vision & Analytical Thinking: Ability to see the big picture and use data to drive decision-making.
• Leadership & Influence: A natural leader who can inspire teams and influence stakeholders without direct authority.
• Problem-Solver: Proactive and solution-oriented, able to navigate complex challenges in a fast-paced environment.
• Detail-Oriented: Meticulous attention to detail with a commitment to product excellence.
• Creative & Innovative: A passionate individual with a creative mind and willingness to think outside the box.
• Adaptable & Resilient: Thrives in a dynamic, international environment and can effectively manage change.