VF Corporation - Merchandising Manager Kipling Global - Antwerp

Kipling Global is looking for an exceptional Global Merchandising Manager to join our Merchandising team based in Antwerp, Belgium.

At Kipling we are on a mission. To live a vibrant and colourful life, go to places we’ve never been before. Be curious. Dare to live the life we’ve always wanted. That’s our mission and influences everything we do.

At Kipling we empower you to go your own way. Diversity makes us stronger and at Kipling we do believe your story matters, this is why we welcome all backgrounds.

Let’s Talk about the Role

As Global Merchandising Manager it is your mission to plan, define and execute the global merchandising product strategy for the brand to achieve short-, medium- and long-term sales & brand growth objectives. You work closely together with the Regional Merchandising teams to obtain a deep understanding of the market situation, needs and product performance. You translate the results of these analyses into Global Merchandising plans with a strong guidance towards our Design team for them to translate this briefing into physical product offer.

How You Will Make a Difference

Develop Seasonal Merchandising Strategy

• Identify growth opportunities and define the market landscape by category and collection.

• Build a globally aligned yet locally relevant assortment strategy.

• Set optimal price points while ensuring global margin targets are met.

• Continuously review forecasts and sales to refine and optimize the global collection.

Ensure Effective Collection Implementation

• Promote global alignment to drive efficiency and profitability across regions.

• Create and maintain global merchandising guidelines.

• Lead Go-To-Market (GTM) presentations to clearly communicate product direction, growth areas, and strategic focus.

Analyze Data, Trends & Customer Insights

• Monitor macro trends and market opportunities through competitive research and trend analysis.

• Collaborate with regional teams to stay informed on local market needs and performance.

• Track global and regional forecasts and sales to identify key drivers and areas for improvement.

• Provide actionable insights on top-performing products to guide future decisions.

Drive Cross-Functional Collaboration

• Partner closely with Design and Product Development to shape a commercially successful global collection.

• Adjust seasonal developments based on sales data and regional feedback.

• Work with Global Marketing to ensure a consistent brand story across all touchpoints, including marketing calendars and visual merchandising guidelines.

Lead, Develop & Coach the Team

• Supervise and mentor the Merchandising Assistant, fostering their professional growth and development.

• Create a supportive and empowering environment that encourages learning, ownership, and continuous improvement.

• Act as a role model and coach, helping to build merchandising capabilities within the team and across functions.

Reporting Relationship:

• Supervisor: Global Merchandising Lead

• Direct report: Merchandising Assistant

• Peers: Regional Merchandising teams, Design team, Product Development team and Marketing team 

Skills for Success

• 5+ years of experience in merchandising, product management, or a related field, ideally in a global or multi-regional context of which a few years of experience in a people management or team leadership role, with demonstrated success in coaching and developing talent

• Extensive expertise in product and merchandising management, within a global entity

• Strong understanding of Kipling brand DNA and the ability to translate it into compelling product strategies

• Strategic thinker with the ability to execute effectively and drive results

• Excellent organizational and time management skills, with the ability to manage multiple priorities

• Strong analytical capabilities, with proficiency in interpreting both quantitative and qualitative data

• Confident communicator with well-developed presentation and storytelling skills

• Adaptable and open-minded, with a proactive and solution-driven approach

• A natural knack for fashion, with a keen eye for trends, consumer behaviour, and product storytelling

• Experience in the luggage, backpack, and accessories categories is a plus

What’s in it For You

We’re in the business of unleashing human potential, driven by the ideas, energy and commitment of our people. That’s why we offer comprehensive benefits that encourage mental, physical and financial well-being for all VF associates. When it comes to benefits, we’re the total package.

• A supportive feedback-based culture where respect and integrity guide us in what we do

• An inclusive international environment where people of diverse backgrounds, lifestyles and nationalities love working together

• Be part of an iconic lifestyle brand in a multi brand, multi countries organization

• On site gym offering health and well-being initiatives

• A discount card with 50% on all VF brands

This post is not eligible for relocation support.

VF is a global apparel company connecting people to the lifestyles they cherish through our family of iconic brands. At the heart of our journey lies our purpose: We power movements of sustainable and active lifestyles for the betterment of people and our planet. This is our purpose. It’s the reason we come to work every day. Our purpose unites us and leads us to pursue our goals, together. This is our calling. Learn more at vfc.com

Free to Be, Inclusion & Diversity 

As an equal opportunity employer, we strive to foster a culture of belonging based on respect, connection, openness and authenticity. We are committed to building and maintaining a workplace that celebrates the diversity of our associates, allowing them to bring their authentic selves to work every day.

If you like what you have read and want to join our team then we would like to hear from you! Apply visit vfc.com, kipling.com or follow us on our LinkedIn and Instagram pages, see you there!