Merchandise Planner
Retail
Durban – KwaZulu Natal
Job Title: Merchandised Planner
Location: Durban, Phoenix
About Us: A large wholesaler is looking for a Merchandise Planner to join their team
Job Description: The Merchandised Planner is responsible for ensuring the strategic planning and efficient execution of merchandise strategies across retail channels. This role involves forecasting demand, analyzing sales data, managing inventory, and collaborating with cross-functional teams to maximize profitability and meet customer demands. The ideal candidate should be adept at analyzing trends, building forecasts, and optimizing the allocation of products.
Key Responsibilities:
- Demand Forecasting & Sales Analysis:
- Develop and maintain accurate sales forecasts based on historical data, market trends, and business insights.
- Monitor and analyse sales trends, inventory levels, and customer behaviour to optimize product assortments and replenish stock efficiently.
- Prepare regular reports detailing key performance indicators (KPIs), sales analysis, and inventory turnover.
- Inventory Management:
- Manage inventory levels to ensure an optimal balance between stock availability and reducing excess inventory.
- Work with the supply chain and procurement teams to ensure timely product deliveries and that product availability aligns with forecasted demand.
- Collaborate with store operations and supply chain teams to minimize stockouts and markdowns.
- Assortment Planning:
- Support the development and implementation of seasonal or promotional product assortments.
- Align product assortments with customer needs, trends, and company goals, ensuring product offerings are optimized for each retail location or channel.
- Monitor product performance and adjust the assortment strategy as needed to maximize sales potential.
- Pricing & Markdown Strategy:
- Assist in the creation and management of pricing strategies that maximize profitability while remaining competitive in the market.
- Work closely with the merchandising and sales teams to identify opportunities for markdowns, clearance sales, and price adjustments.
- Ensure alignment of pricing with promotional and discount strategies.
- Collaboration with Cross-functional Teams:
- Work closely with the merchandising, buying, marketing, and supply chain teams to ensure cohesive execution of merchandising plans.
- Coordinate with the retail and e-commerce teams to optimize product availability, display, and online sales.
- Participate in regular meetings to discuss performance and make necessary adjustments to the merchandising strategy.
- Reporting & Performance Tracking:
- Analyse sales, margin, and inventory performance regularly to track progress against targets and objectives.
- Provide recommendations and insights to senior management to support decision-making and strategic planning.
- Maintain and track key planning metrics such as sell-through rates, stock levels, and open-to-buy.
Qualifications:
- Bachelor’s degree in business, Retail Management, Marketing, or related field.
Skills:
- Experience: Minimum of 2-3 years of experience in merchandising, planning, or a similar role within the retail industry.
- Analytical Skills: Strong proficiency in data analysis, with the ability to interpret sales data, trends, and financial reports.
- Technical Skills: Proficiency in Microsoft Excel (advanced level), with knowledge of planning and inventory management software (Kerridge).
- Attention to Detail: Excellent attention to detail with a focus on accuracy in forecasting, inventory management, and reporting.
- Communication Skills: Strong interpersonal and communication skills, with the ability to work effectively in cross-functional teams.
- Problem-Solving: Strong critical thinking and problem-solving skills, with the ability to adjust strategies based on shifting market conditions.
Application Deadline: 10th December
