Merchandise / Demand Planning Lead.

MacGregor Black is partnering with a consumer retail business on the search for a Merchandise/ Demand Planning Lead. The Merchandise Planning Lead is a newly created strategic role responsible for establishing and embedding a best-in-class merchandise planning function within a leading consumer retail business. The role will define how planning supports buying, supply chain and performance, creating a structured, data-led approach to demand forecasting, stock management, ranging, margin optimisation and promotional planning. Key Responsibilities: Build and lead the merchandise planning function , establishing the processes, structure and ways of working needed to support a growing, multi-channel business. Develop robust annual, seasonal and promotional planning cycles , creating greater consistency and visibility across the wider commercial function. Own demand forecasting and stock planning across a broad product portfolio, balancing commercial opportunity with availability, inventory and working capital. Develop a joined-up planning process across Buying, Operations and Finance, ensuring commercial plans are aligned with supply capability and financial objectives. Introduce more data-led forecasting and planning methodologies , improving forecast accuracy and providing greater forward visibility of demand. Establish clear frameworks around stock cover, intake, availability, stock turn and inventory health , identifying risks and opportunities across categories. Work closely with Buying to provide objective trading insight , supporting range decisions, product selection and commercial planning. Partner with suppliers and Operations to ensure demand plans reflect lead times, supply constraints and capacity , improving availability while managing inventory exposure. Lead a structured S