Paul Coatman

Versatile team member offering over 30 years of experience in the retail industry. Highly-motivated team player who works in an agile way in improving operational efficiency in merchandise/warehouse environment, through effective leadership and diligent stock management. Works and adapts to change, to enhance processes, policies, programs, and team requirements.

Talented in monitoring inventory levels and predicting product demand. Skillful at handling multiple tasks smoothly and efficiently with keen attention to detail.

Head Merchandiser & Stock Control Manager, 07/2018 to Current

Choice Limited (subsidiary of JD Sports PLC) - Romford, Essex

• Manage the distribution of daily and weekly sales reports for retail stores and department managers.
• Analyse sales weekly and suggest solutions to potential performance.
• Ensure correct product allocation across all stores, identifying opportunities to maximise sales and profit and reduce stock holding.
• Manage stock replenishment needs to maximise product availability on the shop floor.
• Attend weekly WSSI meetings with JD Sports Fashion Division to discuss trade, line performance, and stock cover.
• The main point of contact for the warehouse, 6 stores, and online department for all stock-related issues. Ensure that any stock problems are investigated promptly.
• Maintain strong relationships with buying and retail teams to ensure positive business outcomes.
• Assist with range plan data entry and create purchase orders to issue to suppliers.
• Identify any residual order balances and cancel or chase with the supplier to maintain accuracy.
• Organise, coordinate, and execute stock takes for warehouse and all retail stores bi-annually, investigating discrepancies and losses.
• Propose and action markdowns for the sale period and communicate to all departments and stores.

Stock Control Manager, 01/2000 to 07/2018

Choice Limited - Romford, Essex

• Role developed to include all above and merchandising role.
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• Warehouse Manager, 05/1993 to 01/2000

Choice Limited - Romford, Essex

• Managed 10 warehouse staff, including performance and training.
• Implemented procedures, which allowed growth and best practice,
• Managed deliveries against order documentation.
• Managed intake and outbound stock flow, including inter-transfers between stores.
• Oversaw clear, accurate pricing for outgoing stock.

Served as key holder and acted as emergency contact for out of hours alarm callouts

CSE & O Level, 1981 to 1986

Bishop Ward Secondary School - Essex