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Planning and Forecasting Manager
We are a Sunday Times Top Track 100 company and one of the UK 's fastest growing privately owned companies. The Range has grown enormously since its inception in 1989, and now has over 200 stores nationwide. People are at the heart of our retail concept, and we want to invest in our staff and make the future extraordinary.
As a result of our expansion plans, and our continued ongoing success we are seeking a dynamic Planning and Forecasting Manager to be based at our Head Office in Plymouth.
About the Role:
As our Supply Chain Planning & Forecasting Specialist, you’ll lead the alignment of planning and forecasting across our network, ensuring the right products are available in stores and online—on time and in full. You’ll collaborate across departments including Buying, Commercial Trade, Imports, Warehousing, and Logistics to deliver accurate forecasts, support major events, and minimize excess inventory.
You’ll be instrumental in delivering short-term improvements, driving medium-term structural changes, and pioneering long-term innovation in our supply chain processes.
Responsibilities:
1. Collaborate with retail, marketing, and merchandising teams to gather input on promotional calendars and events to ensure forecasting aligns with business objectives.
2. Develop and manage demand forecasts and planning cycles based on historical data, trends, market insights, and upcoming events.
3. Monitor and adjust forecasts regularly to reflect changes in demand patterns, seasonality, or market shifts.
4. Partner closely with key stakeholders, including imports, retail, marketing, operations, and inventory management, to ensure a cohesive approach to planning and forecasting.
5. Facilitate regular planning meetings and workshops to keep all departments aligned on forecast updates, inventory needs, and event planning.
6. Lead the planning process for major sales events, product launches, and seasonal promotions, ensuring alignment between marketing, sales, and inventory teams.
7. Anticipate fluctuations in demand and proactively adjust supply chain strategies to meet the needs of key events and promotional periods.
8. Work with the inventory and procurement teams to ensure accurate stock levels are maintained in line with demand forecasts.
9. Identify and address potential supply chain disruptions, ensuring appropriate mitigations are put in place to maintain product availability.
10. Prepare detailed planning of forecast reports, highlighting key trends, potential issues, and actionable insights for senior leadership.
11. Continuously track and assess volume planning accuracy, identifying opportunities for process improvements.
12. Leverage tools and techniques to improve accuracy and streamline planning processes.
13. Contribute to the development of best practices and process improvements to ensure the business is driving efficiency through accurate planning cycles.
Essential skills/experience
14. Bachelor’s degree in supply chain management, Business or Analytical-type degree, or related field.
15. 3+ years of experience in demand planning, supply chain management, or forecasting, ideally within the retail industry.
16. Experience working cross-functionally across departments (sales, marketing, inventory, etc.) to drive alignment on business objectives and forecasts.
Skills & Abilities:
17. Strong analytical skills with the ability to interpret data, identify trends, and make data-driven decisions.
18. Proficiency in forecasting tools and software (e.g., Excel, SAP, Oracle, or similar systems).
19. Excellent communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to build relationships and influence stakeholders at all levels.
20. Strong oral and written communication skills, as well as ability to think clearly, analyze quantitatively and problem-solve.
21. Able to evaluate priorities appropriately, apt at resolving conflict and able communicates intentions clearly, delivering within time constraints.
22. Strong organizational and project management skills, with the ability to manage multiple priorities in a fast-paced environment.
23. Detail-oriented with a focus on accuracy and precision in forecasting and planning.
What we offer:
24. Competitive salary
25. Pension
26. Long service awards
27. Employee discount
28. Cycle to work scheme
Position: Permanent, Full-time
Hours: Monday – Friday, 08:45am – 17:30pm.
Location: Plymouth, Devon