The company:
Williams’ core competencies are the design and development of racing cars to compete in the Formula One World Championship. As one of the world's leading Formula One teams, the company has secured 16 FIA Formula One World Championship titles since its foundation in 1977 and is now moving into an exciting era under new ownership defined by relentless innovation and living sustainable performance in every dimension.
The Head of Merchandise Planning at Williams Racing will be responsible for developing and executing the merchandise range plan to drive revenue growth, brand, and fan engagement. This role requires a dynamic individual with a strong background in merchandising, retail, ecommerce, and product development, who can translate the Williams Racing brand into a compelling and profitable merchandise range.
As a Head of Merchandise Planning, you will be responsible for:
-
Strategic Planning: Develop and implement a comprehensive merchandise range strategy aligned with the overall brand and commercial objectives of Williams Racing.
-
Product Development: Lead the development of merchandise collections, ensuring high-quality, innovative products that reflect the Williams Racing brand and resonate with our global fanbase.
-
Sales & Marketing: Oversee the creation and execution of marketing campaigns to promote merchandise through various channels, including e-commerce, retail partners, and trackside events.
-
Supplier Management: Build and maintain strong relationships with suppliers, negotiating terms and ensuring timely delivery of products.
-
Inventory Management: Optimize inventory levels to meet demand while minimizing excess stock and obsolescence. Grow and support a merchandise team to deliver growth at scale.
-
Team Leadership: Lead and develop a team of merchandise professionals, fostering a culture of creativity, collaboration, and excellence.
-
Fan Engagement: Enhance fan experience through innovative merchandise offerings and engagement initiatives, ensuring that our products meet the needs and desires of our diverse fanbase.
-
Partnerships: Collaborate with internal teams and external partners to maximize merchandise opportunities, including co-branded products and special editions.
-
Market Analysis: Stay abreast of market trends, competitor activity, and consumer insights to inform product development and sales strategies.
What we are looking for from our Head of Merchandise Planning:
-
Extensive experience in merchandising, planning retail management, or brand management, preferably within the sports or fashion industry.
-
Bachelor’s degree in marketing, Business, Fashion Merchandising, or a related field.
-
Proven track record of developing successful merchandise strategies and driving revenue growth.
-
Strong leadership and team management skills.
-
Excellent communication, negotiation, and interpersonal skills.
-
Ability to think creatively and strategically.
-
Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite and experience with merchandise management systems.
Whilst our main Factory site is based in Grove, Oxfordshire, you would be able to utilise our London location for this role.
What can Williams offer?
The Williams Group is based in multi acre complex located in Grove, Oxfordshire. The Williams Group offers a competitive holiday package, staff events/open days, a subsidised restaurant on site and various car schemes. We have an on-site gym (open 24 hours a day) as well as various fitness classes including outdoors bootcamps, pilates and yoga free for all staff and contractors to use. Aside from these benefits we can offer free onsite parking and large open green spaces to unwind during breaks. We are a based just 30 mins from Oxford City Centre by bus.
Williams is an equal opportunity employer that values diversity and inclusion. We are happy to discuss reasonable job adjustments