Director of Product Strategy

Overall Job Objectives Lead and guide the merchandising, import, and inventory teams to achieve overall business and sales targets. Oversee merchandise, import, and inventory strategy and planning to ensure alignment with company objectives, market competitiveness, and brand direction. Drive initiatives, operational and service excellence across assigned stores to maximise sales performance and customer satisfaction. Strengthen the company’s product differentiation, especially through the introduction of items from Japan and products inspired by the latest Japanese trends, in line with the company's brand direction. Collaboration with internal stakeholders such as Japan Headquarter teams, and external stakeholders to ensure product strategies and brand concepts are well aligned. Champion innovation, productivity, and business growth initiatives to reinforce the organisation’s market position in Singapore. Utilise data-driven insights to inform strategic decisions, identify business risks and opportunities, and improve sales and operational performance. Formulate and implement policies related to risk management, business growth, and cost efficiency to support long‑term sustainability. Core Responsibilities Merchandising & Buying Lead the team in Open-to-Buy (OTB) planning, assortment planning, and buying for the assigned departments. Develop and fine-tune store‑specific assortment profiles on a seasonal basis to support new product launches, replenishments, and new store openings. Keep abreast of latest market trends and consumer preferences to guide product and merchandising directions. Analyse sales performance and product categories to optimise inventory and import efficiency and profitability. Handle shipment discrepancies and ensure accuracy of store transfers and stock take adjustments. Communicate regularly with Japan Headquarter to align on merchandising directions, product selection, and pricing strategies. Negotiate with Japanese manufacturers and vendors to secure competitive terms, maintain product quality, and ensure smooth import processes. Analyse sales performance and product categories to optimise inventory and import efficiency and profitability. Handle shipment discrepancies and ensure accuracy of store transfers and stock take adjustments. Business, Operations Management & Strategy Oversee the operations of multiple stores to ensure alignment with company standards and operational efficiency. Collaborate with Store Operations, Marketing and other support functions to plan and execute strategies that maximise value and enhance customer experience. Conduct data analysis to identify sales trends, risks, and opportunities, and translate insights to actionable business strategies Formulate and implement company-wide policies related to business risk, growth strategy, and cost control, ensuring alignment with corporate objectives Drive the achievement of sales and operational KPIs across all assigned stores. Ensure seamless order fulfilment processes and uphold service excellence standards Promote operational excellence by applying methodology and productivity frameworks to enhance workplace efficiency through eliminating wastage and inefficiencies, and improving workflows. Leadership & Stakeholder Management Provide strategic leadership, guidance, and motivation to the merchandising, inventory, import, and operations teams. Foster a positive, performance-driven, and collaborative work culture across all stores. Work closely with senior management, Japan Headquarter, and other key stakeholders to translate strategic goals into actionable business plans. Champion innovation and continuous improvement in merchandising and retail operations. Others Undertake any other duties or projects as assigned by management. Job Specifications Relevant experience in retail merchandising, category management, or retail operations, with at least 10 years in a senior leadership role. Proven track record in developing and executing merchandising strategies that drive business growth. Experience in managing multi-store operations in a fast‑paced retail environment is preferred. Strong knowledge of Japanese retail trends, consumer behaviour, and product development cycles. Japanese language ability is required to liaise with Japan Headquarters and vendors. #J-18808-Ljbffr