At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead EMEA planning for retail, e-commerce, and wholesale channels while driving strategic growth.
- Company: Join SKIMS, a pioneering brand redefining modern apparel with a focus on innovation and inclusivity.
- Benefits: Enjoy private medical insurance, life assurance, income protection, and wellness perks.
- Other info: Be part of a creative team committed to operational excellence and sustainable growth.
- Why this job: Shape the future of fashion in a dynamic, high-performance environment with global impact.
- Qualifications: 12-15+ years in merchandise or financial planning, preferably in international fashion.
The predicted salary is between 90000 - 120000 £ per year.
SKIMS is a solutions-oriented brand creating the next generation of underwear, loungewear, shapewear, and essentials. We are setting new standards by delivering technically innovative, comfort-driven products with elevated design for everybody. At the intersection of culture, innovation, and commerce, SKIMS is a global brand redefining modern apparel. Our teams are built on creativity, collaboration, and operational excellence, and we are committed to fostering an inclusive, high-performance environment where ambitious, curious, and values-driven individuals can do the best work of their careers.
As we continue to scale globally, our HQ teams play a critical role in shaping strategy, building world-class infrastructure, and driving sustainable growth across markets. We are seeking a Director of Planning, EMEA to lead regional financial and merchandise planning across all channels in the EMEA region. This role will be responsible for owning the EMEA top-line and bottom-line planning strategy, driving disciplined forecasting, inventory management, and long-range planning to support retail, wholesale, franchising and e-commerce growth. This is a highly strategic leadership role for a commercially minded planner with deep international experience and a strong ability to operate at both regional and global levels.
Key Responsibilities- Regional Planning Leadership: Own and lead the EMEA planning function across retail, concessions, e-commerce, wholesale and franchising channels. Develop and manage regional financial plans, including topline, margin, inventory, and OTB by market and channel. Partner with Global Planning to align EMEA plans with enterprise financial targets and long-range strategy.
- Forecasting & Performance Management: Lead seasonal and in-season forecasting, reforecasting, and scenario planning for the region. Own weekly and monthly performance reviews, providing clear insights on risks, opportunities, and corrective actions. Drive disciplined inventory management, including depth, flow, and regional stock allocation.
- Strategic Growth & Market Expansion: Partner closely with Regional Leadership on new market entry, store openings, and flagship planning (e.g., UK, EU, Middle East). Build robust pre- and post-launch financial models for new doors, markets, and channels. Support long-range planning (3–5 year horizon) for EMEA growth, headcount, and infrastructure.
- Cross-Functional Partnership: Act as a core business partner to Merchandising, Trading, Finance, Retail Ops, E-Commerce, and Supply Chain. Influence key decisions on assortment architecture, pricing strategy, promotional cadence, and inventory investment. Partner with Finance on budgets, forecasts, and regional P&L ownership.
- Team Leadership & Capability Building: Build, lead, and develop the EMEA Planning team as the region scales. Establish planning processes, cadence, and best practices tailored to international markets. Mentor senior planners and managers, building a strong internal pipeline of talent.
- Reporting & Executive Communication: Own EMEA planning reporting for executive leadership, including weekly trade, monthly close, and long-range planning decks. Present clearly and confidently to senior leadership on regional performance and strategic recommendations.
- 12–15+ years of experience in merchandise planning, financial planning, or commercial planning within fashion, apparel, or consumer retail.
- Proven Director-level experience leading planning for multi-market or international regions (EMEA strongly preferred).
- Deep expertise in OTB, forecasting, inventory management, and margin optimization.
- Strong understanding of omnichannel planning (retail, e-commerce, wholesale).
- Advanced financial and analytical skills; highly proficient in Excel and planning systems (Anaplan, SAP, or similar).
- Experience building and scaling regional planning teams in a high-growth environment.
- Highly commercial, strategic, and data-driven.
- Strong business partner with the ability to influence at senior levels.
- Comfortable operating in ambiguity and rapid international growth.
- Detail-oriented with strong financial rigor.
- Passion for building scalable planning organizations and driving profitable growth.
- Private Medical Insurance (PMI)
- Group Life Assurance
- Income Protection
- Critical Illness
- Pension Scheme
- Modern Health
- ClassPass
Director of Planning , EMEA in London employer: SKIMS
At SKIMS, we pride ourselves on being an exceptional employer that champions creativity, collaboration, and operational excellence. Our inclusive work culture fosters personal and professional growth, offering employees the chance to thrive in a dynamic environment while contributing to a globally recognised brand. With competitive benefits such as Private Medical Insurance and opportunities for career advancement, joining our team as the Director of Planning, EMEA means being part of a forward-thinking company dedicated to redefining modern apparel.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Director of Planning , EMEA in London
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to people in the industry, attend events, and connect on LinkedIn. You never know who might have the inside scoop on job openings or can put in a good word for you.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for interviews by researching the company and its culture. Understand their products and values, so you can show how you fit into their vision. We want to see your passion for what they do!
✨Tip Number 3
Practice your pitch! Be ready to explain your experience and how it aligns with the role. Keep it concise but impactful – we want to hear about your achievements and how you can contribute to their success.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to follow up after interviews! A quick thank-you email can go a long way in keeping you top of mind. Plus, it shows your enthusiasm for the position. And remember, apply through our website for the best chance!
We think you need these skills to ace Director of Planning , EMEA in London
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your Application:Make sure to customise your CV and cover letter for the Director of Planning role. Highlight your experience in merchandise and financial planning, especially within the EMEA region, to show us you’re the perfect fit!
Showcase Your Strategic Mindset:We want to see how you think! In your application, share examples of how you've driven strategic growth and market expansion in previous roles. This will help us understand your approach to planning and decision-making.
Be Data-Driven:Since this role is all about numbers, don’t shy away from showcasing your analytical skills. Include specific metrics or achievements that demonstrate your expertise in forecasting, inventory management, and margin optimisation.
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’re considered for this exciting opportunity at SKIMS!
How to prepare for a job interview at SKIMS
✨Know Your Numbers
As a Director of Planning, you'll need to demonstrate your financial acumen. Brush up on key metrics like OTB, margin optimisation, and inventory management. Be ready to discuss how you've used these metrics in past roles to drive growth.
✨Showcase Your Strategic Mindset
This role requires a strategic approach to planning. Prepare examples of how you've developed long-range plans or tackled complex forecasting challenges. Highlight your ability to align regional strategies with global objectives.
✨Emphasise Cross-Functional Collaboration
You'll be working closely with various teams, so it's crucial to showcase your experience in cross-functional partnerships. Share specific instances where you've influenced decisions across departments like Merchandising, Finance, and Retail Ops.
✨Prepare for Executive Communication
You'll need to present insights and recommendations to senior leadership. Practice articulating your thoughts clearly and confidently. Consider preparing a mock presentation on a relevant topic to demonstrate your communication skills.
