At a Glance
- Tasks: Manage forecasting for warehouse and store volumes while collaborating with partners.
- Company: Join Next, a leading FTSE-100 retail company with over 35,000 employees.
- Benefits: Enjoy 25% off products, performance bonuses, and on-site nursery facilities.
- Why this job: Be part of a dynamic team that values data-driven decisions and offers growth opportunities.
- Qualifications: Ideal candidates have experience in forecasting or data analysis, especially in logistics or retail.
- Other info: Flexible working options and support for workplace adjustments available.
The predicted salary is between 28800 - 43200 £ per year.
Forecast and Planning Analyst (Third Party)
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About the Role: We\’re looking for a sharp, analytical Forecasting & Planning Analyst to join our growing Total Platform (TP) team at our distribution centre in South Elmsall.
What You’ll Do
- Own the end-to-end forecasting process for warehouse, store, intake, and returns volumes.
- Build strong relationships with third-party partners — aligning expectations, managing onboarding, and supporting day-to-day operations.
- Create and deliver clear, insight-driven reporting on KPIs, SLAs, and forecast performance.
- Work closely with finance, operations, and external partners to ensure alignment between forecast and capacity planning.
- Support new partner models and improve internal processes with data-led thinking.
About You
- Experience in a forecasting, planning, or data analysis role — ideally in logistics, supply chain, or retail.
- Advanced Excel skills and a head for numbers.
- A confident communicator who can build trusted relationships across all levels.
- Organised, detail-oriented, and able to handle multiple priorities at pace.
- Bonus points for 3PL knowledge, warehouse ops experience, or exposure to planning tools.
About Us
You know Next, but did you know we’re a FTSE-100 retail company employing over 35,000 people across the UK and Ireland. We’re the UK’s 2nd largest fashion retailer and for Kidswear we’re the market leader. At the last count we have over 500 stores, plus the Next Online and it’s now possible to buy online from over 70 countries around the world. So we’ve gone global!
About The Team
- 25% off most NEXT, MADE, Lipsy, Gap and Victoria\’s Secret products (when purchased through NEXT)
- Company performance based bonus
- Sharesave scheme
- On-site Nursery available; OFSTED outstanding in all areas
- 10% off most partner brands & up to 15% off Branded Beauty
- Early VIP access to sale stock
- Access to staff discounts, restaurants, digital health services, and more
- Free on-site parking
- Financial Wellbeing tools
- Apprenticeship – Grow and develop on the job whilst gaining a qualification
- Direct to Work – Discount online and in-store, collect items next day from workplace or local store
- Support Networks – Access to Network Groups
- Wellhub – Discounted flexible gym memberships and related services
Conditions apply to all benefits. These benefits are discretionary and subject to change.
We aim to support all candidates during the application process and are happy to provide workplace adjustments when necessary. If you need support due to disability or long-term condition, please contact us at headoffice_careers@next.co.uk (include \”Workplace Adjustments\” in the subject) or call 0116 284 2486 and leave a voicemail.
Seniority level
- Entry level
Employment type
- Full-time
Job function
- Business Development and Sales
- Industries: Retail
Referrals increase your chances of interviewing at Next by 2x.
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Forecast and Planning Analyst (Third Party) employer: Next
Contact Detail:
Next Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Forecast and Planning Analyst (Third Party)
✨Tip Number 1
Familiarise yourself with the logistics and supply chain industry, especially focusing on third-party logistics (3PL). Understanding the nuances of this sector will help you speak confidently about your knowledge during interviews.
✨Tip Number 2
Brush up on your Excel skills, particularly advanced functions like pivot tables and VLOOKUP. Being able to demonstrate your proficiency in data analysis tools will set you apart from other candidates.
✨Tip Number 3
Network with professionals in the forecasting and planning field. Attend industry events or join relevant online forums to connect with others who can provide insights or even referrals for the role.
✨Tip Number 4
Prepare to discuss how you've successfully managed relationships in previous roles. Think of specific examples where you aligned expectations and supported operations, as this is crucial for the position.
We think you need these skills to ace Forecast and Planning Analyst (Third Party)
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV highlights relevant experience in forecasting, planning, or data analysis. Emphasise any roles you've had in logistics, supply chain, or retail, and showcase your advanced Excel skills.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Write a cover letter that clearly outlines your interest in the Forecast and Planning Analyst role. Mention specific experiences that demonstrate your analytical skills and ability to build relationships with partners.
Showcase Your Communication Skills: In your application, provide examples of how you've effectively communicated with various stakeholders. This could include managing expectations or collaborating on projects, which is crucial for this role.
Highlight Your Organisational Skills: Detail your ability to manage multiple priorities and stay organised. Use specific examples from past experiences where you successfully handled competing tasks, as this is important for the fast-paced environment at Next.
How to prepare for a job interview at Next
✨Showcase Your Analytical Skills
As a Forecast and Planning Analyst, your analytical abilities are crucial. Be prepared to discuss specific examples of how you've used data analysis in previous roles, particularly in logistics or retail. Highlight any tools or methodologies you’ve employed to improve forecasting accuracy.
✨Demonstrate Strong Communication
Building relationships with third-party partners is key in this role. During the interview, emphasise your communication skills by sharing experiences where you successfully managed stakeholder expectations or collaborated with teams across different levels.
✨Prepare for Scenario-Based Questions
Expect questions that assess your problem-solving skills in real-world scenarios. Think about challenges you’ve faced in forecasting or planning and how you overcame them. This will show your ability to think critically and adapt in a fast-paced environment.
✨Familiarise Yourself with Industry Trends
Stay updated on current trends in logistics and supply chain management. Being knowledgeable about industry developments can set you apart from other candidates. Discussing these trends during your interview can demonstrate your passion and commitment to the field.