Planner

SUMMARY:
Merchandise Planner - Fashion Retail - Cape Town

POSITION INFO:
Our reputable Fashion Retail client is seeking a Merchandise Planner to join their team, based in Cape Town City Centre. Purpose of the Role: They are seeking a commercially driven and analytical Merchandise Planner who thrives in a fast-paced fashion retail environment. The successful candidate will play a key role in driving sales, profitability, and inventory optimization through strategic merchandise planning and data-driven decision-making. This role requires someone who can effectively interpret sales trends, forecast demand, manage inventory levels, and collaborate closely with Buyers and suppliers to ensure the right products are available at the right time, in the right stores. Salary: Market-Related Minimum Requirements: - Minimum 3+ years' experience in merchandise planning, preferably within the fashion retail industry. - Relevant Degree or tertiary qualification with a strong numerical focus (Commerce, Retail Management, Supply Chain, Mathematics, Statistics, Finance or similar). - Advanced proficiency in Microsoft Excel and strong data analysis skills. - Experience working with retail merchandise planning systems. - Experience with Oracle MFP or Centric PLM will be advantageous. - Strong commercial acumen with the ability to interpret market trends and consumer behavior. - Excellent analytical, numerical, and problem-solving abilities. - Highly organized with exceptional planning and time management skills. - Strong interpersonal and communication skills. - Ability to work under pressure within a fast-paced retail environment. - Adaptable, agile, and solutions focused. - Collaborative team player with a passion for retail and continuous improvement. Responsibilities: - Collaborate closely with Merchandise Buyers and suppliers to develop commercially successful product assortments. - Develop and implement merchandise plans based on historical sales performance, market trends, and buying patterns. - Drive sales and profitability through effective inventory management, demand forecasting, and stock optimization. - Utilise international merchandise planning systems alongside in-house retail planning tools to maximize business performance. - Analyze sales performance and prepare detailed reports on product performance, inventory levels, and business trends. - Partner with suppliers to manage production lead times and ensure timely product delivery. - Conduct ongoing market research to monitor industry developments, competitor activity, and economic trends. - Ensure the right merchandise reaches the right stores, at the right time, in the right quantities and at the appropriate price points. - Monitor stock performance and recommend trading actions to maximize sales opportunities while minimizing markdowns. - Work closely with cross-functional teams including Buying, Sourcing, Logistics, and Distribution to ensure seamless product flow. - Provide accurate forecasting, budgeting, and sales planning to support business objectives. - Present planning insights and recommendations to stakeholders through clear reporting and data analysis. - Continuously identify opportunities to improve planning processes, efficiencies, and overall business performance. Competencies: - Strong analytical and critical thinking skills. - Excellent numerical aptitude and attention to detail. - Commercially minded with a strong trading instinct. - Systems-oriented and technologically proficient. - Excellent organisational and time management skills. - Strong communication and presentation abilities. - Ability to build effective relationships across multiple departments. - Proactive, adaptable, and resilient. - Able to make informed decisions using both data and commercial judgement. - Passionate about fashion retail and delivering business results. Please take note: If you have not been contacted within 14 days, please consider your application unsuccessful.