Merchandiser - Development

Role summary

Written by MyIslandJob from the job title and employer. See the employer's page for the full description.

The Development Merchandiser coordinates apparel product development from initial concept through sample approval and production handover. Typical requirements include a degree or diploma in apparel, fashion, textile, or a related field; experience in garment merchandising or product development; knowledge of fabrics, trims, construction, costing, and quality standards; and strong communication and computer skills. The candidate is expected to work closely with designers, buyers, suppliers, technical teams, and factories, manage development timelines, follow up on samples and approvals, identify potential production issues, and maintain accurate records. Attention to detail, commercial awareness, negotiation ability, teamwork, and the capacity to manage multiple deadlines are important.

About the employer

MAS Holdings is one of South Asia’s leading apparel and textile manufacturing groups, headquartered in Sri Lanka. The company works with global fashion and sportswear brands and provides services ranging from design and product development to manufacturing and supply-chain support. MAS is known for innovation, advanced manufacturing, sustainability, and its focus on ethical workplace practices. Its business includes intimate apparel, sportswear, performance clothing, wearable technology, and textile solutions. The group operates facilities and offices across several countries and employs a large international workforce. In Sri Lanka, MAS offers opportunities in merchandising, product development, engineering, production, quality, supply chain, technology, and corporate functions. Employees commonly work in fast-paced, international teams that require strong technical knowledge, collaboration, customer focus, and the ability to meet demanding quality and delivery standards.

Working in Sri Lanka

Sri Lanka offers career opportunities in apparel and textiles, tourism, IT, finance, logistics, engineering, healthcare, and education. Colombo and nearby industrial zones have the widest selection of professional roles, while regional cities provide opportunities in manufacturing, hospitality, agriculture, and services. The island has a warm tropical climate, diverse communities, strong family traditions, and rich Sinhala, Tamil, Muslim, and colonial cultural influences. Living costs are generally lower than in many Western countries, although Colombo accommodation and imported goods can be expensive. Public transport is affordable, and English is widely used in business. Foreign employees normally need an appropriate employment or residence visa arranged with employer support before starting work; visa rules and approvals should be confirmed with Sri Lankan authorities. Relocating candidates should check housing, healthcare, taxation, schooling, and local employment conditions in advance.