The Merchandise Planning Manager is a newly created strategic role responsible for establishing and embedding a best-in-class merchandise planning function.
The role is to create a structured, data-led approach to demand forecasting, stock management, ranging, margin optimisation and promotional planning. Working closely with the Purchasing Director, Buying Team and Operations function, the role will introduce commercial discipline, improve visibility of forward demand, reduce stock risk and enhance availability across all key product categories.
Duties will be include :
Design and implement a merchandise planning framework and governance.
Create an independent, data-led demand signal to support buying decisions.
Align commercial plans with supply chain capability and inventory strategy.
Improve forecast accuracy, stock turn, availability and working capital performance.
Support strategic category reviews, promotional events and seasonal planning.
Key responsibilities:
Merchandise Planning Strategy.
Define the structure, processes and outputs of the merchandise planning function.
Establish planning cycles (e.g. annual, quarterly, promotional and seasonal).
Introduce category planning templates and standardised reporting.
Develop stock and intake frameworks aligned to financial and margin (commission) targets.
Key skills required:
Significant experience (5+ years) in merchandise planning, demand planning or commercial planning within multi-site and multi-channel retail, wholesale or buying group environments.
Strong commercial acumen with understanding of margin, stock turn, availability and working capital drivers.
Advanced analytical skills with strong Excel capability and experience using planning systems
Experience building or reshaping planning processes within a growing organisation.
Experience in building, leading and developing teams.
Proven ability to influence senior stakeholders and operate cross-functionally and at all levels across a business.
Experience working with buying and supply chain teams in a multi-category environment.
Interested? Apply today with your CV and one of our experienced consultants will be in touch