Manager - Trend Research, Accessories

Responsibilities & Key Deliverables

Role Overview:

As part of the Mahindra Auto Accessories team, the Manager – Trend Research will be responsible for identifying emerging consumer, lifestyle, fashion, and adventure trends that shape the future of Mahindra’s merchandise portfolio. This role will translate market intelligence into actionable insights that support category strategy, product development, buying decisions, and seasonal collection planning. The incumbent will work closely with design and merchandising teams to ensure the Accessories, lifestyle range remains relevant, differentiated, and aligned with evolving customer preferences.

Key Responsibilities

Trend Research & Forecasting

Research global and domestic lifestyle, fashion, adventure, and retail trends across relevant categories.
Monitor macro and micro consumer trends, cultural shifts, and industry developments to identify emerging opportunities.

Seasonal Trend Planning

Prepare seasonal trend reports, trend forecasts, and mood boards for product development and merchandising teams.
Translate trend insights into clear themes, color palettes, materials, graphics, and design directions.

Consumer & Market Insights

Identify emerging categories, customer preferences, and evolving consumption patterns.
Conduct consumer and competitor research to uncover market gaps and growth opportunities.

Design & Buying Support

Support design and buying teams with trend direction and category-specific recommendations.
Ensure trend insights are incorporated into assortment planning, product concepts, and seasonal collections.

Innovation & Future Opportunities

Track innovations in materials, sustainability, retail experiences, and lifestyle products.
Recommend new concepts and opportunities to strengthen Mahindra Accessories’ lifestyle merchandise portfolio.

Experience

Key Skills & Competencies

• Strong expertise in trend forecasting and consumer research.
• Proficiency in WGSN, Trendalytics, and similar trend intelligence platforms.
• Excellent presentation, storytelling, and visualization skills.
• Strong analytical and strategic thinking capabilities.
• Good understanding of fashion, lifestyle, outdoor, and consumer product trends.
• Ability to translate complex insights into actionable business recommendations.
• Strong collaboration and stakeholder management skills.

Qualifications

Experience & Qualifications

• 4–5 years of experience in trend forecasting, consumer insights, market research, or related roles within fashion, lifestyle, retail, or consumer brands.
• Bachelor’s degree in Fashion, Design, Marketing, Consumer Studies, or related field.
• Experience working with trend intelligence platforms and translating insights into product or business strategies is preferred.

Our commitment to Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion

How We Work (Culture)

At Mahindra, we put our customers first and build products that help them Rise. We take ownership, move with speed, and collaborate deeply to solve real problems with simplicity and conviction. We value diverse perspectives, data-driven decisions, and a bias for action. Above all, we hold ourselves to high standards to create SUVs that are bold, reliable, and meaningful — reflecting Mahindra’s commitment to innovation, authenticity, and progress.

Why Join Us

You will be at the heart of creating iconic SUVs and accessories that resonate with millions of customers. Your decisions will shape India’s automotive landscape and define Mahindra’s product leadership journey.

Our Commitment to Diversity, Equity & Inclusion

We believe diversity fuels innovation and strive to create a workplace where everyone feels valued and included. Mahindra is an Equal Opportunity Employer, welcoming applicants from all backgrounds and ensuring fair consideration regardless of personal characteristics protected by law. We encourage diverse talent to apply and are committed to providing an accessible, inclusive experience for all candidates.