Merchandising Management NBA Africa

Position Summary

Merchandising Management NBA Africa & BAL is responsible for overseeing product development, pricing, inventory management, and retail strategy to maximize the sales performance and brand impact of NBA Africa merchandise. This role works closely with internal teams (marketing, e-commerce, business development) and external partners (licensees, retailers, manufacturers) to ensure the successful execution of merchandising plans that align with market demands and the NBA Africa brand identity. Merchandising Management NBA Africa & BAL is also responsible for analyzing consumer trends, managing retail relationships, and optimizing product assortments to drive growth in the region.

Major Responsibilities

• Product Development & Assortment Planning: Collaborate with design teams, licensees, and suppliers to create merchandise that resonates with NBA fans across Africa, ensuring alignment with market trends and brand guidelines
• Inventory & Supply Chain Management: Monitor inventory levels, optimize stock turnover, and coordinate with retail and e-commerce teams to manage demand planning, minimizing overstock and shortages
• Retail & E-Commerce Strategy: Work closely with retail partners, online platforms, and licensees to ensure a consistent merchandising strategy across physical and digital channels, enhancing consumer accessibility
• Pricing & Promotions: Develop and implement dynamic pricing strategies based on market research, competitor analysis, and sales performance data to maximize profitability
• Sales Performance Tracking & Reporting: Analyze sell-through rates, revenue performance, and category trends, providing actionable insights to optimize merchandising decisions
• Consumer Trends & Market Analysis: Conduct research on consumer preferences, fashion trends, and local market dynamics to refine product selection and merchandising strategy
• Brand Compliance & Product Quality: Ensure all NBA-branded merchandise meets NBA quality standards, compliance regulations, and partner agreements
• Vendor & Partner Management: Build and maintain relationships with manufacturers, suppliers, and distributors, ensuring smooth collaboration and timely product launches
• Cross-Functional Collaboration: Work with marketing, digital, and business development teams to integrate merchandising efforts into broader commercial initiatives, including activations and campaigns
• Performance Reporting & Data-Driven Decision Making: Track key merchandising KPIs, monitor inventory efficiency, and provide leadership with regular reports on sales, product performance, and market opportunities

Required Skills/Knowledge

• Merchandising & Retail Expertise: Strong knowledge of product development, pricing, retail operations, and inventory management
• Market & Consumer Insights: Ability to analyze consumer preferences and translate insights into merchandising strategies
• Analytical & Strategic Thinking: Proficiency in using sales data, trends, and financial analysis to drive business decisions
• Project Management & Execution: Proven ability to manage multiple merchandising initiatives, ensuring timely execution and alignment with strategic goals
• Collaboration & Stakeholder Engagement: Experience working with internal teams (marketing, business development, e-commerce) and external partners (retailers, manufacturers)
• Technical Proficiency: Advanced Microsoft Excel, PowerPoint, and merchandising software tools; familiarity with ERP systems is a plus
• Bilingual Proficiency: Fluency in English required; French or Portuguese proficiency is a plus

Experience Needed

• 5–7 years of experience in merchandising or retail operations
• Proven success in managing inventory, pricing, and product development processes
• Experience in sports or entertainment merchandising is preferred

Educational Background Required

• Bachelor's degree in Business, Marketing, or a related field
• Certifications in merchandising or inventory management are a plus