Junior Merchandise Planner

Future Careers is seeking a Junior Merchandise Planner for a well-established retailer and manufacturer based in Durban. The ideal candidate is a detail-oriented, analytical retail professional with a passion for numbers, customer behaviour, and stock management, who can support the planning team in ensuring the right products reach the right stores at the right time.

Description

Sales & Inventory Analysis

• Analyse daily, weekly, and monthly sales data to identify trends and opportunities.
• Monitor store and product performance and flag risks (over/underperformance).
• Assist in proposing action plans to optimise stock levels.

Forecasting & Planning

• Support the Planner in building seasonal budgets, forecasts, and category plans.
• Update weekly sales, stock, and intake (WSSI) under guidance.
• Provide accurate reporting to support OTB (Open-to-Buy) decisions.

Stock Management

• Track stock flow into distribution centres and stores.
• Monitor replenishment levels and action store allocations promptly.
• Ensure optimal stock health: manage aged, slow movers, and markdown proposals.

Store & Product Support

• Develop an understanding of store profiles, regional performance, and customer demand.
• Assist in creating size curves and product buying ratios.
• Provide store-level insights to inform buying and assortment strategies.

Reporting & Administration

• Prepare and maintain daily/weekly reports (sales, stock, KPIs).
• Support planners with ad hoc analysis and presentations.
• Maintain internal tools, trackers, and system data accuracy.

Education Profile

• Strong numerical ability and analytical mindset.
• High level of accuracy and attention to detail.
• Proficient in Excel (pivot tables, VLOOKUPs, spreadsheets).
• Ability to interpret data and present insights clearly.
• Strong communication and teamwork skills.
• Ability to work under pressure in a fast-paced retail environment.
• Commercial awareness and passion for retail trends.

Qualifications & Experience

• Degree/diploma in Commerce, Retail, Supply Chain, or similar (advantageous).
• 1-2 years of experience in retail planning, buying admin, or stock management.
• Experience with planning systems or retail software (advantageous).

Application Instructions

Please forward your CV to

Should you not be contacted within 2 weeks, kindly consider your application unsuccessful.