Summary

• This position is required to oversee the entire planning function for the brand. The role is responsible for controlling inventory in the brand and to manage the flow of products in the business. Do all pricing, forecasts and procurement of stock.   

Planning Strategy

• Understand the business strategy and assist in developing product strategies and range building in line with the business vision.
• Develop an integrated planning process that deals with customer demand, upselling opportunities in high demand end uses, EOL & stock to management in accordance with budgeted guidance (OTB), to consume against future seasons.
• Evaluate data from other relevant brand countries for forecasting purposes and to support recommendations for range decisions.

Operational Partnerships (Retail,Wholesale, marketing, ecommerce, Logistics, IT)

• Assist buying department with information needed for the buying process.
• Together with the Buyer, ensure optimal samples are selected that are applicable to the South African market.
• Assist Retail and Merchandiser/Buyer to ensure that buy-plans are well detailed and clearly understood by team members and relevant stakeholders
• Manage merchandise, supply chain and logistics aspect of retail
• Measure stock levels against plans

Reporting and Analytics

• Consolidation and loading of all POs for the company
• Assist in the mapping and architecture of the IT system for order management, logistical support, planning, point of sale, order tracking and Bl tools etc.
• Develop and continually evaluate all reports in order to establish sales history, seasonal sales analysis, aged inventory & liquidation plans etc.
• Build and manage a consumption tool to react early to effectively plan for stores & business
• Develop management reports indicating attainment to target, margins and EOL status
• Develop an accurate ATS document to be refreshed on a weekly basis
• Develop seasonal and ATS order forms
• Create business dashboards highlighting business opportunities as well as risks

Lead

• Lead and manage the planning process for the brand
• Facilitate recruitment, on boarding, mentoring and succession within the department
• Ensure planning governance and compliance within the brand

Requirements

• Degree in Logistics, Supply-Chain, Retail, Business or any other related field
• 3+ years’ management experience in planning/retail environment
• 5 years proven merchandise distribution and planning experience
• Strategic agility and able to articulate the vision and purpose
• Ability and experience in managing a dynamic, diverse and decentralised team
• Advanced Excel skills
• Highly numerate, analytical and detailed orientated
• Organized and deadline driven with exceptional attention to detail
• Drives collaboration and promotes teamwork
• Must have good problem-solving skills
• Ability to prioritize tasks according to importance in a fast-paced environment
• Multi-tasking capability without compromising on quality
• Dependable, punctual and able to work flexible working hours
• Valid Driver’s license and own transport
• Willing to travel locally