At a Glance
- Tasks: Build and shape a planning function, influencing commercial and supply chain performance.
- Company: Join a dynamic team in a multi-site, multi-channel retail environment.
- Benefits: High visibility role with real impact and strategic ownership.
- Other info: Opportunity to develop innovative processes and drive commercial success.
- Why this job: Perfect for those wanting to make a difference in a collaborative setting.
- Qualifications: 5+ years in planning, strong analytical skills, and leadership experience.
The opportunity
We’re exclusively supporting the hire of a Merchandise Planning Manager into a newly created, high-impact role within a complex, multi-site, multi-channel environment. This is a rare opportunity to build and shape a planning function from the ground up, with real influence across commercial, supply chain and financial performance. Ideal for someone from a merchandise, demand or commercial planning background looking to step into a broader, more strategic role.
What you’ll do
- Build and implement a best-in-class planning framework
- Own demand forecasting and create a clear, data-led demand signal
- Align commercial, supply chain and financial plans
- Improve forecast accuracy, stock turn and working capital
- Introduce and lead S&OP / IBP processes
- Support range planning, promotions and seasonal activity
- Provide commercial insight and challenge to decision making
- Develop clear reporting, KPIs and planning governance
Who we’re looking for
- 5+ years’ experience in a planning role (e.g. merchandise, demand or commercial / inventory planning)
- Experience within multi-site, multi-channel retail, wholesale or similar environments
- Strong understanding of margin, stock, availability and working capital
- Advanced analytical capability (Excel / planning tools)
- Experience building or improving planning processes
- Ability to influence senior stakeholders cross-functionally
- Leadership experience
The 'nice to haves' but certainly not essential
- Experience in consumer goods, electricals or similar product-led environments
- Exposure to distributed, franchise or partner-led models
Why this new role really appeals?
- Build a function from the ground up
- High visibility and real commercial impact
- Strategic role with hands-on ownership
- Collaborative, forward-thinking environment
Locations
Merchandise Planning Manager in Andover, Hampshire employer: ReQuire Consultancy
Join a long-established British manufacturer near Warminster that prioritises employee development and innovation. As a Multi-Skilled Engineer, you'll enjoy a supportive work culture that encourages ownership and creativity, with opportunities for professional growth through involvement in significant engineering projects. With a focus on improving machinery and reducing downtime, this role offers a rewarding chance to make a real impact in a thriving manufacturing environment.
