Merchandise Planner 02M26

A Merchandise Planner plays a crucial role in the retail industry by ensuring that the right products are bought in the right quantities and delivered to the right stores at the right time. This position involves a strategic approach to managing inventory and aligning it with consumer demand to maximize sales and minimize stockouts and overstock situations. As a Merchandise Planner, you will work closely with the buying team to develop strategies that support the company's goals and improve profitability. You will also collaborate with the supply chain and marketing departments to ensure that promotions align with stock availability and are effective in capturing customer interest. Through data analysis and forecasting, you are expected to provide insights that will guide future merchandising strategies and help create an optimal shopping experience for customers.

Responsibilities

• Analyze sales data to forecast future stock requirements and consumer demand trends.
• Collaborate with buyers to determine seasonal merchandise trends and buying strategies.
• Develop effective inventory management plans to prevent excess stock and shortages.
• Work in conjunction with marketing to align promotions with inventory levels and sales peaks.
• Monitor and adjust inventory investments to achieve financial targets and improve cash flow.
• Produce detailed reports on merchandise performance, sales trends, and stock levels.
• Communicate with suppliers to ensure timely delivery and optimal stock levels in stores.
• Negotiate with vendors for better pricing and favorable terms to increase margins.
• Utilize retail analytics tools to optimize product assortment and improve stock placement.
• Provide strategic insights to the management regarding future product launches and trends.
• Coordinate with supply chain to ensure synchronized logistics and reduce delivery disruptions.
• Adjust merchandise plans in response to sales performance and evolving market conditions.

Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree in Business Administration, Finance, or a related field.
• Minimum of three years of experience in retail planning or merchandising.
• Strong analytical skills with experience using retail forecasting software systems.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills to collaborate with cross-functional teams.
• Ability to work under pressure and handle multiple projects simultaneously.
• Proficient in Microsoft Excel and familiar with analytics and reporting tools.
• Demonstrated ability to analyze market trends and consumer behavior effectively.