At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead the creation of a top-notch merchandise planning function and optimise stock management.
- Company: Join a forward-thinking company focused on innovative retail strategies.
- Benefits: Attractive salary, flexible working options, and opportunities for professional growth.
- Other info: Dynamic role with potential for career advancement in a collaborative environment.
- Why this job: Shape the future of merchandise planning and make a real impact in retail.
- Qualifications: 5+ years in merchandise planning with strong analytical and strategic skills.
The predicted salary is between 50000 - 65000 £ per year.
The Merchandise Planning Manager is a newly created strategic role responsible for establishing and embedding a best-in-class merchandise planning function. The role is to create a structured, data-led approach to demand forecasting, stock management, ranging, margin optimisation and promotional planning. Working closely with the Purchasing Director, Buying Team and Operations function, the role will introduce commercial discipline, improve visibility of forward demand, reduce stock risk and enhance availability across all key product categories.
Duties will include:
- Design and implement a merchandise planning framework and governance.
- Create an independent, data-led demand signal to support buying decisions.
- Align commercial plans with supply chain capability and inventory strategy.
- Improve forecast accuracy, stock turn, availability and working capital performance.
- Support strategic category reviews, promotional events and seasonal planning.
Key responsibilities:
- Merchandise Planning Strategy.
- Define the structure, processes and outputs of the merchandise planning function.
- Establish planning cycles (e.g. annual, quarterly, promotional and seasonal).
- Introduce category planning templates and standardised reporting.
- Develop stock and intake frameworks aligned to financial and margin (commission) targets.
Key skills required:
- Significant experience (5+ years) in merchandise planning, demand planning, or related fields.
Merchandising Planning Manager employer: Personnel Selection
As a leading player in the retail sector, our company offers an exceptional work environment for the Merchandising Planning Manager role, characterised by a collaborative culture that values innovation and strategic thinking. Employees benefit from comprehensive professional development opportunities, competitive remuneration, and a commitment to work-life balance, all set against the backdrop of a vibrant location that fosters creativity and teamwork. Join us to be part of a forward-thinking team dedicated to excellence in merchandise planning and operational success.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Merchandising Planning Manager
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to people in the industry, attend events, and connect on LinkedIn. We all know that sometimes it’s not just what you know, but who you know that can help you land that Merchandising Planning Manager role.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for interviews by researching the company and its merchandise planning strategies. We suggest you come armed with insights on their current stock management practices and how you can improve them. Show them you’re the perfect fit for their new strategic role!
✨Tip Number 3
Practice your pitch! You want to clearly articulate your experience in demand forecasting and stock management. We recommend rehearsing with a friend or in front of a mirror to boost your confidence before those big interviews.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! We’ve got loads of resources to help you stand out. Plus, applying directly shows your enthusiasm and commitment to joining the team. Let’s get you that Merchandising Planning Manager position!
We think you need these skills to ace Merchandising Planning Manager
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV:Make sure your CV reflects the skills and experience mentioned in the job description. Highlight your significant experience in merchandise planning and any relevant achievements that align with the role.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter:Use your cover letter to tell us why you're the perfect fit for the Merchandise Planning Manager role. Share specific examples of how you've successfully implemented merchandise planning strategies in the past.
Showcase Your Data Skills:Since this role is all about a data-led approach, be sure to emphasise your experience with data analysis and forecasting. Mention any tools or methodologies you’ve used to improve stock management and demand forecasting.
Apply Through Our Website:We encourage you to apply directly through our website. It’s the best way for us to receive your application and ensures you don’t miss out on any important updates during the process.
How to prepare for a job interview at Personnel Selection
✨Know Your Numbers
As a Merchandise Planning Manager, you'll need to demonstrate your expertise in data analysis. Brush up on key metrics like forecast accuracy and stock turn rates. Be ready to discuss how you've used data to drive decisions in past roles.
✨Showcase Your Strategic Thinking
This role is all about creating a structured approach to merchandise planning. Prepare examples of how you've designed and implemented successful planning frameworks in previous positions. Highlight your ability to align commercial plans with supply chain capabilities.
✨Collaborate Like a Pro
You'll be working closely with various teams, so it's crucial to show your collaborative skills. Think of instances where you've successfully partnered with buying teams or operations to enhance availability and reduce stock risk. Communication is key!
✨Prepare for Scenario Questions
Expect questions that assess your problem-solving abilities. Prepare for scenarios related to demand forecasting and promotional planning. Think through how you would tackle challenges like unexpected stock shortages or changes in consumer demand.
