[Hiring] Merchandise Planner @D2B

Role Description

We are seeking a Merchandise Planner to optimize inventory, product allocation, and sales performance across multiple stores and channels. This role involves collaborating closely with planning, merchandising, and store teams to ensure the right products are available in the right quantities at the right time, while supporting the overall financial and operational goals of the business.

Key Duties & Responsibilities

• Pre-Season Allocation:
  • Develop and maintain seasonal allocation plans aligned with store frameworks and historical performance.
  • Balance new season styles with carry-over items from previous seasons, optimizing stock levels and assortment.
• In-Season Inventory Management:
  • Monitor fast- and slow-selling products to optimize sell-through and prioritize stock allocation.
  • Manage clearance strategies to maximize margins and sell-through rates, reducing unnecessary transfers.
  • Plan and execute in-season markdowns using KPIs to drive performance.
  • Oversee stock replenishment systems to maintain optimal inventory levels.
• Store Support:
  • Maintain the purchases budget file with current data, identifying opportunities and developing actionable plans.
  • Produce trade reports and provide insights and recommendations based on performance metrics.
  • Act as a proactive point of contact for stores, identifying inventory issues and supporting resolution. Conduct store visits where practical.
• Post-Season Analysis:
  • Complete post-season teardown reporting and identify opportunities for future buys.
  • Attend post-season analysis meetings to provide insights and recommendations for continuous improvement.
• Analysis and Cross-Functional Support:
  • Support planning and merchandising teams with data analysis for forecasting and replenishment decisions.
  • Identify operational improvements that enhance stock availability and in-stock performance.
• Business Partnership:
  • Build and maintain effective communication channels and relationships with store teams and support office colleagues.
• Organizational Compliance:
  • Uphold company core values and adhere to policies and guidelines.
  • Undertake additional duties as directed by the Head Planner.

Qualifications

• Proven experience in merchandise planning, inventory management, or retail planning (preferably in sportswear, sporting goods, or lifestyle retail).
• Strong analytical skills with the ability to interpret sales data and inventory metrics.
• Proficiency in stock management systems and MS Excel.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills to collaborate effectively with cross-functional teams and stores.
• Ability to plan, prioritize, and manage multiple tasks in a fast-paced retail environment.
• Attention to detail and problem-solving skills to identify and resolve inventory and allocation issues.