SHEEJA NAMBIAR
New Delhi
Summary
Dynamic Divisional Merchandising Manager with a proven track record at Impulse International, adept at global sourcing and strategic planning. Achieved a 20% cost reduction through effective negotiation and vendor relations. Skilled in cross-functional team leadership and problem-solving, driving product innovation and enhancing supply chain efficiency.
Overview
23
23
years of professional experience
Work History
Divisional Merchandising Manager
Impulse International Private Limited
Gurgaon
03.2015 - Current
- Spearhead a $10 million business portfolio across key international markets, including the US, UK, Germany, and South Korea
- Collaborate closely with global clients like Walmart USA, Target, and leading South Korean brands to understand market needs, deliver tailored product solutions, and ensure customer satisfaction
- Lead end-to-end product development, from concept ideation and sample development to final production and shipment
- Bridge the gap between buyer expectations and design innovation by analyzing global fashion trends and competitor landscapes
- Partner with design teams to create compelling seasonal collections aligned with market preferences
- Negotiate pricing and margins with suppliers and factories to maintain profitability while meeting quality and delivery standards
- Develop effective costing strategies by analyzing material, labor, and operational expenses
- Resolve challenges during production by maintaining open communication between buyers, vendors, and internal stakeholders
- Regularly visit factories to ensure on-ground monitoring, troubleshoot production issues, and ensure compliance with delivery schedules
- Conduct fabric innovation presentations biweekly, introducing buyers to new materials and driving product differentiation
- Manage vendor capacity planning across India, Bangladesh, and Sri Lanka to meet fluctuating demand
- Mentor and lead a high-performing merchandising team, fostering collaboration and continuous professional development
- Reduced lead times by 15% through strategic vendor management and supply chain optimization
- Secured a 20% cost reduction by introducing alternative fabrics and negotiating better supplier terms
Product Development Merchandiser
Next Sourcing Private Limited
Gurgaon
04.2013 - 11.2014
- Managed end-to-end product lifecycle for the Next UK Baby Girl Jersey and Older Girl Jersey accounts
- Collaborated with design, buying, and production teams to ensure product concepts translated accurately into manufacturable garments
- Developed a comprehensive understanding of fabric performance, trims, and garment construction for various styles including T-shirts, dresses, leggings, and tunics
- Sourced and managed materials such as Single Jersey, Jacquard, French Terry, and Cotton Poly blends to meet design specifications
- Conducted regular fit sessions and managed sample approvals to ensure product quality and alignment with brand standards
- Maintained accurate product documentation and ensured timely sample submissions and approvals
- Communicated consistently with offshore vendors and factories to monitor production progress and mitigate potential delays
- Implemented a more efficient sample management process, reducing sample turnaround time by 30%
Merchandiser
NSK Textiles Ltd. Buying House
Gurgaon
09.2012 - 03.2013
- Acted as a key liaison between buyers, factories, and internal teams to manage the production cycle for Jones Jeanswear Group brands, including Gloria Vanderbilt, Bandalino Blu, and Jessica Simpson
- Oversaw product development, ensuring designs were cost-effective, manufacturable, and aligned with brand aesthetics
- Conducted detailed cost analysis, negotiating favorable pricing with suppliers while maintaining quality standards
- Maintained fabric libraries and ensured accurate fabric selection for various products, including slub jerseys, burnout fabrics, and Poly Jacquards
- Led fabric and trim sourcing efforts to ensure timely sample production and bulk manufacturing
- Prepared and maintained clear documentation, including costing sheets, production reports, and sample records
- Reduced material costs by 10% through strategic negotiations and sourcing
Senior Merchandiser
Li & Fung India Pvt. Ltd.
Gurgaon
04.2011 - 03.2012
- Managed end-to-end operations for South American brands, including Falabella Chile and Renners Brazil
- Developed competitive cost proposals and secured buyer approvals through detailed market analysis
- Oversaw material sourcing and managed production schedules to meet tight delivery deadlines
- Maintained compliance with brand guidelines, ensuring accurate product execution
- Worked closely with quality control teams to monitor production quality at various manufacturing units
Merchandiser
NSK Textiles Ltd. Buying House
Gurgaon
10.2006 - 03.2010
- Managed merchandising operations for major US clients, including Gymboree Corporation USA, Janie and Jack, and Crazy 8
- Specialized in sourcing fabrics like denim, canvas, and chambray for kids’ wear collections
- Conducted regular market visits to identify innovative fabric and trim options
- Streamlined the sampling process and ensured alignment between design intent and final production
- Developed cost-efficient production strategies while maintaining brand quality standards
Merchandiser
Rubric Apparels Pvt Ltd.
Noida
02.2002 - 05.2006
- Managed merchandising and production processes for international clients including Amplayer USA, Spirito Italia Canada, and Imiller Shirts Inc
- Coordinated with designers and production teams to ensure timely sample development and approvals
- Maintained regular communication with factories to ensure production milestones were met
- Ensured compliance with quality control standards across all product categories
Education
Bachelor of Business Administration -
Janardhan Rai Nagar Rajasthan Vidyapeeth University
Advanced Diploma - Software Technology
ET & T Computer Education Center
Diploma - Secretarial Studies
YWCA
Skills
- Global Merchandising and Sourcing
- Product Development Management
- Vendor and Supplier Relations
- Cost Negotiation and Budget Management
- Strategic Planning and Market Analysis
- Cross-Functional Team Leadership
- Supply Chain Optimization
- Fabric and Textile Expertise
Hobbies and Interests
- Passionate about staying updated on fashion and textile trends.
- Enjoys reading business publications and exploring global market insights.
- Actively participates in cultural events and community activities.
- Music enthusiast with an interest in various genres.
Languages
- English, Advanced (C1)
- Hindi, Advanced (C1)
- Tamil, Advanced (C1)
- Malayalam, Advanced (C1)
Timeline
Divisional Merchandising Manager
Impulse International Private Limited
03.2015 - Current
Product Development Merchandiser
Next Sourcing Private Limited
04.2013 - 11.2014
Merchandiser
NSK Textiles Ltd. Buying House
09.2012 - 03.2013
Senior Merchandiser
Li & Fung India Pvt. Ltd.
04.2011 - 03.2012
Merchandiser
NSK Textiles Ltd. Buying House
10.2006 - 03.2010
Merchandiser
Rubric Apparels Pvt Ltd.
02.2002 - 05.2006
Bachelor of Business Administration -
Janardhan Rai Nagar Rajasthan Vidyapeeth University
Advanced Diploma - Software Technology
ET & T Computer Education Center
Diploma - Secretarial Studies
YWCA
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