Permanent - Junior Planner - eThekwini (Durban) - South Africa

As a Merchandise Planner, you will play a pivotal role in driving business performance by developing data-driven sales, stock, and assortment plans in collaboration with key stakeholders. You will ensure the right product is in the right store, at the right time and price, to optimize profitability and maximize customer satisfaction.

Key Performance Indicators (KPIs):

1. Sales and Profit Management

2. Assortment Plan Building

3. Stock Management

4. Store Analysis

5. Strategic Product Input

6. Business Reporting & Analysis

7. Adhoc Reporting

    

   Key Responsibilities:

   1. Sales and Profit Management

   • Set sales and profit targets by category, based on historical performance and market opportunities.

   • Develop bottom-up financial plans for new seasons or financial years.

   • Lead weekly planning sessions with relevant Buyers to align on strategies and execution.

   2. Assortment Planning

   • Build comprehensive bottom-up assortment plans with Buyers, tailored to category strategies.

   • Conduct price point and range analysis to optimize product mix (good/better/best strategy).

   • Review product performance and recommend continuations, additions, or discontinuations.

   3. Stock and Inventory Management

   • Manage Open-to-Buy (OTB) plans in line with sales forecasts and stock-to-sales ratios.

   • Collaborate with Buyers to monitor and manage outstanding orders.

   • Drive markdown management strategies and ensure store-level execution.

   • Handle aged stock effectively to minimize obsolescence and maximize recovery.

   4. Store Analysis and Allocation

   • Ensure stores are stocked in line with category and location demand to maximize turnover.

   • Plan allocations for new store openings, including appropriate category splits.

   • Grade stores by category and performance to optimize stock distribution.

   • Assist Buyers in pricing and product selection decisions when needed.

   5. Reporting and Analysis

   • Prepare daily, weekly, and monthly sales and performance reports for management.

   • Track and report on the effectiveness of promotions and markdowns.

   • Conduct SWOT analyses and assist in business reviews and presentations.

   6. Strategic & Adhoc Input

   • Provide insights and recommendations based on trends, historical data, and in-season performance.

   • Deliver ad-hoc reports as required to support business decisions.

Key Skills and Competencies:

• Strong analytical and numerical ability

• Advanced Excel skills and proficiency in planning/reporting systems

• Commercial acumen with an understanding of retail KPIs

• Excellent communication and collaboration skills

• Attention to detail and accuracy

• Problem-solving and critical thinking ability

• Ability to manage multiple priorities and meet deadlines

• Experience with financial planning and forecasting

• Knowledge of product lifecycle and retail supply chain