Merchandising Manager - Jordan

Haddad Brands Europe , founded in 2017, specializes in the distribution of children's apparel under exclusive licenses (Nike, Levi's, Converse, Jordan, Lacoste ) across Europe.

Operational for 8 years, the company has experienced remarkable growth and now counts over 500 employees throughout Europe.

We distribute our products both through wholesale , working with major multi-brand and specialized retailers, and through retail , via our corners in leading department stores.

In concrete terms, this means that if you purchase children's apparel (0-7 years for Nike, 0-16 years for Levi's, Converse, and Jordan), whether in a physical store, online, in the Netherlands, the UK, Italy, or anywhere else in Europe, the product you're holding has gone through us - even if you bought it in an official Nike or Levi's store!

We are currently looking for a Merchandising Manager - Jordan.

KEY RESPONSIBILITIES:

• Lead the European merchandising process for Jordan Apparel, Bags, Hosiery, and Accessories, ensuring alignment with the 3-year seasonal brand strategy in partnership with the Global Merchandising Team.
• Manage the seasonal game plan calendar in close collaboration with the Merchandising, Design, and Sourcing teams based in New York.
• Develop a strong understanding of the UK and European consumer, including marketplace dynamics, product preferences, emerging trends, and competition.
• Build detailed seasonal line plans at style and colour level that meet European market requirements.
• Create a well-balanced Integrated Marketplace with clear differentiation and segmentation by channel and account.
• Implement pricing strategies at style and colour level in line with margin targets and market benchmarks.
• Ensure full Go-To-Market readiness by validating wholesale and suggested retail pricing, as well as sample approvals.
• Collaborate closely with Demand Planning and Buying teams to secure proper seasonal coverage.
• Conduct the seasonal Top-Line Budget Review to support accurate and aligned seasonal buys.
• Coordinate cross-functional processes with the Sales team to integrate feedback on style selection and consumer/account insights.
• Perform regular marketplace visits and deliver detailed reports to internal teams.
• Purchase and ship competitor samples to the Global team in New York.
• Track all updates from line plan selection through to shipment readiness.
• Support the creation and tracking of seasonal drop/add lists.
• Oversee the seasonal handover process to Demand Planning and Buying teams.

QUALIFICATION & SKILLS:

• Show passion for product, consumer, and marketplace.
• Bring over 5 years of experience in sports or fashion merchandising, retail, or buying.
• Understand and demonstrate the ability to manage an Integrated Marketplace distribution matrix.
• Possess expert knowledge of the UK and European marketplace across channels (Sporting Goods, Athletic Specialty, Department Stores, DTC, Digital).
• Organize and own a disciplined seasonal calendar ensuring all key milestones are met.
• Deliver strong and confident presentations to internal and external stakeholders.
• Combine high levels of creativity and analytical thinking.
• Perform effectively in a fast-paced, dynamic environment.
• Embrace teamwork and promote collaboration as the key to success.
• Master MS Excel (data reporting, pivot tables, complex analyses), Word, and PowerPoint.
• Handle pressure and manage multiple tasks under tight deadlines while maintaining quality standards.
• Travel across the European marketplace, as well as to New York City and Portland, OR.

EMPLOYMENT CONDITIONS:

• Contract: Permanent contract
• Location: Position based in Hilversum
• When: ASAP

BENEFITS:

• Dining Area
• Discounts on and staff sales, and works council benefits (discounts, gift vouchers)
• Nike Commercial Partner Badge
• Restaurants/Café's/Food Truck