I am a results-driven and detail-oriented product development and merchandising professional with over 10 years in the apparel industry. I excel at managing the full lifecycle of intimate wear, activewear, and fashion apparel, with a strong command of costing, ERP systems, buyer negotiations, and cross-functional collaboration to ensure on-time delivery and efficient processes while building strong relationships with international buyers. Known for leadership, strategic planning, and upholding high-quality standards, I have led SPANX projects, coordinated with design, QA, production and logistics teams, tracked critical paths, and maintained data integrity in PLM/ERP environments. I thrive in fast-paced settings and am committed to delivering premium products that meet margin targets and client expectations.

Malini Madhushika Athukorala

I am a results-driven and detail-oriented product development and merchandising professional with over 10 years in the apparel industry. I excel at managing the full lifecycle of intimate wear, activewear, and fashion apparel, with a strong command of costing, ERP systems, buyer negotiations, and cross-functional collaboration to ensure on-time delivery and efficient processes while building strong relationships with international buyers. Known for leadership, strategic planning, and upholding high-quality standards, I have led SPANX projects, coordinated with design, QA, production and logistics teams, tracked critical paths, and maintained data integrity in PLM/ERP environments. I thrive in fast-paced settings and am committed to delivering premium products that meet margin targets and client expectations.

Available to hire

I am a results-driven and detail-oriented product development and merchandising professional with over 10 years in the apparel industry. I excel at managing the full lifecycle of intimate wear, activewear, and fashion apparel, with a strong command of costing, ERP systems, buyer negotiations, and cross-functional collaboration to ensure on-time delivery and efficient processes while building strong relationships with international buyers.

Known for leadership, strategic planning, and upholding high-quality standards, I have led SPANX projects, coordinated with design, QA, production and logistics teams, tracked critical paths, and maintained data integrity in PLM/ERP environments. I thrive in fast-paced settings and am committed to delivering premium products that meet margin targets and client expectations.

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Language

English
Fluent
Sinhala, Sinhalese
Fluent

Work Experience

Assistant Manager – Product Development at Brandix Apparel (Pvt) Ltd
July 1, 2024 - Present
Lead end-to-end development for SPANX brand (Knit & Intimates), ensuring accurate costing, quality, and timely delivery. Coordinate with cross-functional teams (design, QA, production, logistics) to align with production schedules. Analyze sales data, support budget planning, and maintain ERP data integrity. Lead vendor negotiations to secure competitive pricing while maintaining margin targets. Handle all buyer communications, meetings, and development presentations with Spanx teams. Track the critical path and manage product launch timelines effectively.
Senior Product Development Merchandiser at Brandix Apparel (Pvt) Ltd – Welisara, Sri Lanka
March 1, 2023 - April 1, 2024
Coordinated costing and FIT sample processes for multiple styles while adhering to client timelines. Ensured seamless execution of sample development through supplier follow-ups and fabric/trims coordination. Maintained accurate development records and supported clear communication with buyers and internal teams.
Product Development Merchandiser at Brandix Apparel (Pvt) Ltd – Fast Fashion – Welisara, Sri Lanka
April 1, 2019 - March 1, 2021
Supported product development lifecycle from sample coordination to bulk order handoff. Engaged in buyer communication, T&A updates, and PLM documentation. Conducted cost analysis and negotiated sample prices with suppliers to meet margin targets.
Staff Assistant Merchandiser at Brandix Apparel (Pvt) Ltd – Fast Fashion – Welisara, Sri Lanka
January 1, 2015 - March 1, 2019
Assisted in development samples and managed daily buyer communication. Maintained PLM data entries and tracked approvals to ensure smooth workflow. Monitored raw material readiness and coordinated with sourcing teams to avoid delays.
Product Development & Assistant Manager – Product Development (SPANX: Knit & Intimates) at Brandix Apparel (Pvt) Ltd – Biyagama, Sri Lanka
July 1, 2024 - Present
Manage end-to-end development for SPANX brand, ensuring accurate costing, quality, and timely delivery of intimate wear and activewear products. Coordinate with cross-functional teams (design, QA, production, logistics) to ensure alignment with production schedules. Analyze sales data, support budget planning, and maintain ERP system data integrity. Lead negotiations with vendors to secure competitive pricing while maintaining margin targets. Handle all buyer communications, meetings, and development presentations with Spanx teams. Track the critical path and manage product launch timelines effectively.
Senior Product Development Merchandiser at Brandix Apparel (Pvt) Ltd – Welisara, Sri Lanka
April 1, 2021 - February 28, 2023
Led the development and timely delivery of samples for VS Pink and VS accounts. Oversaw BOM completion in PLM for PINK and VS merchandise. Maintained a 100% on-time communication record with both internal and external stakeholders.

Education

National Diploma in Business Administration & HRM at Sri Lanka Foundation Institute
January 11, 2030 - December 7, 2025
Diploma in Microsoft Office at LBS Sri Lanka
January 11, 2030 - December 7, 2025
Certificate Course in Human Resource Management at Institute of Personnel Management Sri Lanka
January 11, 2030 - December 7, 2025
Foundation Course in Human Resource Management at Institute of Personnel Management Sri Lanka
January 11, 2030 - December 7, 2025
National Diploma in Business Administration & HRM at Sri Lanka Foundation Institute
January 11, 2030 - December 7, 2025
Diploma in Microsoft Office at LBS Sri Lanka
January 11, 2030 - December 7, 2025
Certificate Course in Human Resource Management at Institute of Personnel Management Sri Lanka
January 11, 2030 - December 7, 2025
Foundation Course in Human Resource Management at Institute of Personnel Management Sri Lanka
January 11, 2030 - December 7, 2025

Qualifications

Certificate Course in Human Resource Management
January 11, 2030 - December 7, 2025
Foundation Course in Human Resource Management
January 11, 2030 - December 7, 2025
Certificate Course in Human Resource Management
January 11, 2030 - December 7, 2025
Foundation Course in Human Resource Management
January 11, 2030 - December 7, 2025
Diploma in Microsoft Office
January 11, 2030 - December 7, 2025
National Diploma in Business Administration & HRM
January 11, 2030 - December 7, 2025

Industry Experience

Manufacturing, Retail, Professional Services, Other, Wholesale & Distribution