Head / Lead – Merchandising & Brand Sourcing

Role overview We are looking for a commercially sharp Merchandising & Brand Sourcing Lead to identify, onboard and scale high-potential consumer brands and products. This role will build a differentiated portfolio through asset-light distribution partnerships, using Brandverse’s warehousing, sales, distribution and market-access capabilities to drive attractive margins while keeping working-capital exposure low. Key responsibilities Scout consumer markets for high-potential brands, categories and SKUs with strong demand and attractive commercial potential. Identify emerging and niche brands that have compelling products but need stronger distribution or market access. Assess opportunities using consumer demand, sell-through, pricing, competition, gross margin, inventory risk and scalability. Build relationships with brands, importers, manufacturers and category partners to develop distribution opportunities. Structure asset-light partnerships that balance Brandverse’s market-access capabilities with limited inventory and working-capital exposure. Negotiate commercial terms, including margins, inventory ownership, credit, returns, schemes, exclusivity and channel rights. Build and manage a dynamic portfolio of high-margin, fast-moving brands and products across relevant consumer categories. Partner with Sales and Distribution teams to grow brands across general trade, modern trade, e-commerce and other relevant channels. Track SKU-level sell-through, inventory ageing, margins and partner profitability; scale successful products and address or exit underperforming ones. Develop a clear pipeline of sourcing opportunities and maintain disciplined evaluation and onboarding processes. Ideal candidate Experience in merchandising, category management, brand sourcing, distribution or commercial partnerships in consumer products. Strong understanding of retail demand, product velocity, pricing, category economics and channel margins. A track record of identifying products or brands with commercial potential and converting opportunities into scalable business. Established relationships with brands, vendors, importers, manufacturers, retailers or distributors. Strong commercial negotiation and analytical skills, including the ability to assess margin, inventory and working-capital trade-offs. Entrepreneurial, decisive and comfortable building a portfolio in a fast-moving environment. What success looks like Build a portfolio that delivers attractive distribution margins, strong sell-through and high inventory turns while maintaining low working-capital intensity. The profile we’re looking for: Product Scout + Brand Hunter + Commercial Negotiator + Category Business Builder