Role ObjectiveThe Export Merchandiser will be responsible for managing the end-to-end product lifecycle for international orders. This includes initial inquiry handling, product development, cost negotiation, production tracking, and ensuring timely shipment of high-quality foam products to global markets.
Key Responsibilities- Order Management & Execution: Handle the complete process from receipt of order to final shipment. Act as the primary point of contact for international buyers regarding order status and specifications.
- Costing & Negotiation: Prepare accurate cost sheets considering raw material prices (polyurethane, chemicals), labor, packaging, and logistics. Negotiate pricing with buyers to ensure healthy profit margins.
- Product Development: Coordinate with the R&D and Production teams to develop foam samples (density, hardness, and dimensions) based on specific buyer requirements or international standards.
- Production Planning: Liaise with the factory production manager to schedule orders, ensuring that the Lead Time promised to the client is strictly maintained.
- Quality Assurance (QA) Coordination: Ensure that the final product meets the specific chemical compliance and physical durability standards required by the destination country (e.g., REACH or CertiPUR-US).
- Documentation Support: Work closely with the logistics team to ensure all export documentation (Commercial Invoices, Packing Lists, Certificates of Origin, Bill of Lading) is accurate and compliant.
- Market Analysis: Keep track of global foam industry trends, competitor pricing, and fluctuations in the cost of petrochemical derivatives.
Required Skills & Qualifications- Education: Bachelor's degree in International Business, Textiles, Polymers, or a related field. (MBA in International Trade is a plus).
- Experience: 35 years of experience in export merchandising, preferably in the foam, mattress, home furnishing, or chemical industry.
- Technical Knowledge: Familiarity with export-import (EXIM) procedures, Incoterms (FOB, CIF, etc.), and payment terms like LC (Letter of Credit).
- Soft Skills:
- Strong negotiation and communication skills (English proficiency is mandatory).
- Excellent analytical skills for costing and budgeting.
- Ability to work under tight deadlines and manage multiple accounts simultaneously.
- Tools: Proficiency in MS Excel (vlookups, pivot tables) and ERP software (e.g., SAP or Oracle).
Success Metrics- On-Time Delivery (OTD): Meeting shipping deadlines for 95% or more of orders.
- Order Accuracy: Zero returns or claims due to incorrect specifications or poor quality.
- Customer Retention: Success in securing repeat orders from existing international clients.
Pro Tip: In the foam industry, volatility in chemical prices (like TDI or Polyol) can shift margins overnight. A great candidate for Jindal Petro Foams will be someone who stays ahead of these price trends.
