Merchandising Planner

About the position

Our client based in Aeroton, Johannesburg is seeking a Merchandising Planner to join their team.
MAIN JOB FUNCTIONS: PLANNING & ANALYSIS:

• Develop and manage top-down and bottom-up financial plans (sales, margin, inventory, open-to-buy) by category, sub-category, and season, ensuring alignment with company objectives.
• Monitor and analyze business performance against plans, identifying trends, opportunities, and risks.
• Conduct comprehensive post-mortem analyses of key assortments, promotions, and seasons to inform future strategies.
• Prepare and present weekly, monthly, and seasonal business review to senior leadership

INVENTORY MANAGEMENT:

• Manage the open-to-buy process to ensure optimal inventory levels, minimizing overstocks and out-of-stocks.
• Oversee the allocation and replenishment strategies to maximize sales and inventory efficiency across all channels.
• Develop and implement inventory liquidation strategies for clearance and aged inventory.
• Collaborate with the buying team on initial assortment buys and seasonal planning.

FORECASTING & REPORTING:

• Develop accurate sales, inventory, and markdown forecasts using historical data, market trends, and promotional calendars.
• Create and maintain detailed reports and dashboards to track key performance indicators (KPIs) and provide actionable insights.
• Utilize planning software and tools to enhance forecasting accuracy and efficiency – Syspro understanding would be an advantage

CROSS-FUNCTIONAL COLLABORATION:

• Partner closely with the Merchandising/Buying team to develop seasonal strategies, identify product opportunities, and manage vendor relationships.
• Collaborate with Marketing to align promotional strategies with inventory availability and financial goals.
• Work with Operations/Supply Chain to ensure timely delivery of goods and efficient inventory flow.
•  Interface with Finance to ensure financial plans are aligned with broader company financial objectives.

SKILLS AND ATTRIBUTES:

• Analytical Acumen: Exceptional analytical and problem-solving skills with the ability to interpret complex data and translate it into actionable insights.
• Strategic Thinking: Ability to develop long-term plans and execute strategic initiatives. Communication: Excellent verbal and written communication skills, with the ability to present complex information clearly and concisely to various stakeholders.
• Detail-Oriented: High attention to detail and accuracy in financial calculations and data analysis.
• Adaptability: Ability to thrive in a fast-paced, dynamic retail environment and manage multiple priorities simultaneously.
• Collaboration: Proven ability to build strong relationships and work effectively with cross-functional teams.
• Business Acumen: Solid understanding of retail financial metrics, supply chain processes, and consumer buying behaviours.

WORKING CONDITIONS:

• Primarily office-based with occasional travel to stores, distribution centres, or vendor meetings as required.
• May require extended hours during peak seasons or critical business periods.

MINIMUM REQUIREMENTS:

• Tertiary qualification in business, Finance, Merchandising, or a related field.
• 5 or more years of experience in merchandise planning, inventory management, or financial analysis within a retail environment
• Proven track record of achieving financial targets and optimizing inventory.
• Strong proficiency in retail planning software and advanced excel skills
• Experience with business intelligence tools (e.g., Tableau, Power BI) is a plus.

Please note that only shortlisted candidates will be contacted. 

Desired Skills:

• Merchandising Planner
• Financial Plans
• Inventory