A little bit about the role… We’re looking for a Merchandise Demand Planner/ Projects SME to join our team in a 12-month fixed term opportunity. As a Merchandise/demand planner you will manage the planning and forecasting function for your portfolio across all channels. You will partner in developing the strategy for your portfolio and execute effectively to maximise sales, profit and inventory. You will support the development of forward plans and OTB. As a project SME you will support the development and implementation of merchandise systems (demand & replenishment) and processes, that enable us to elevate our execution and effective stock management. Own the end to end planning cycle from budget and hindsight reviews through to assortment planning, segmentation, forecasting and merchandise plan development. Analyse in season performance, deliver trade insights and recommendations, and manage demand to OTB including order recommendations, size analysis and delivery optimisation. Monitor and interpret performance across all channels (online, wholesale, corporate, retail) and recommend stock management strategies, ensuring alignment with allocation and buying teams. Manage phase in/phaseout processes, clearance transitions and markdown cycles to maximise sell through and ensure efficient exit of obsolete inventory. Support the implementation of Just Enough modules, document processes, complete UAT, and contribute to ongoing system embedment and continuous improvement. Collaborate closely with buyers, allocators, purchasing, product teams, regional managers, digital partners and DC teams to ensure aligned objectives and smooth execution. You’ll thrive in this role if you are: A demonstrated tenacity, passion and knowledge for Merchandise and Inventory management, and analysis Initiative & pro-activity Excellent communications/ stakeholder management skills, both verbal and written including the ability to present insights and financials at all levels of the business Understanding of Project Management methodology and systems implementation Merchandise Financial Planning Demand/Supply Planning Strong financial acumen and analytical skills Ability to multi-task, prioritise Training and Documentation – ability to influence and lead a successful project High proficiency in Microsoft 365 and BI tools (Microstrategy and Power BI preferrable) Agile Project Management/change management beneficial. Qualification & Experience Requirements: Business related tertiary qualification Demonstrated knowledge of Merchandise Planning/Demand Planning Strong financial acumen and Business Analytics - Experience working with large data and analytics Prior allocation/ demand planning experience preferred Analytical, organizational, and communication skills Strong understanding of resource utilization and management Prior merchandising application and process mapping/ documentation experience
