Merchandising Manager, APAC

Job description

About the client:

Our client is currently actively looking for a senior Merchandising Manager, APAC to lead end-to-end product and packaging programs for fast-growing global brand clients.

This is a high-impact build-and-lead position focused on elevating merchandising standards, scaling team capability, and embedding disciplined processes across development, sourcing, and production to drive commercial success. The role demands strong ownership, operates in a fast-paced environment, and carries significant influence, and acting as the bridge between client expectations, manufacturing realities, and profitability targets.

Key Responsibilities:

• Design private label product architectures (pricing tiers, margin targets, and assortment strategies) to support expanding global accounts across beauty, CPG, and accessories categories.
• Lead major client projects, coordinating cross-functionally to align with commercial priorities.
• Convert brand and product briefs into commercially viable, scalable programs.
• Own the full project lifecycle: Development → Proto → Pre-Production Sampling → PO → Production → Inspection → Shipment → Financial Closure.
• Partner with internal stakeholders to identify and resolve risks affecting timeline, quality, or cost.
• Enforce structured workflow discipline across the merchandising team and cross-functional partners.
• Serve as the commercial gatekeeper for PO release, production launch, and shipment approvals.
• Spot market gaps, trends, and innovation opportunities in product and packaging that align with client growth objectives.
• Review costing sheets, BOMs, and packaging specifications for accuracy and alignment.
• Maintain rigorous sample cost control and financial traceability, including close monitoring of material price fluctuations.
• Evaluate product and packaging designs to ensure they meet branding, compliance, manufacturability, and cost requirements.
• Drive cost optimization initiatives with manufacturing partners while protecting quality standards.

Candidate's Profile:

• 10+ years of progressive experience in private label, OEM/ODM, or brand-side merchandising roles.
• Proven track record of end-to-end ownership of complete product programs (not just functional contributions).
• Strong expertise in product costing and packaging development within multi-SKU, high-volume categories.
• Deep knowledge of complex manufacturing ecosystems across Asia.
• Experience working with major US and EU mass-market retailers or brands is highly preferred.
• Excellent negotiation, financial analysis, and risk management skills.
• Willingness to travel regularly to vendor sites for sample reviews and production oversight on key projects.
• Fluent English is required; Mandarin proficiency is a strong advantage.