At a Glance
- Tasks: Own and enhance demand forecasts while collaborating with global teams.
- Company: Join Zelus, Nike's exclusive global licensee for teamwear apparel.
- Benefits: Enjoy a hybrid work model, competitive salary, and professional growth opportunities.
- Other info: Inclusive culture that celebrates diversity and offers career advancement.
- Why this job: Make a real impact in sports by optimising stock for athletes worldwide.
- Qualifications: 3+ years in demand planning, advanced Excel skills, and strong analytical abilities.
The predicted salary is between 40000 - 50000 £ per year.
Zelus is Nike Inc.’s exclusive global licensee for teamwear apparel and equipment, serving athletes and teams from grassroots to elite level across football, rugby, basketball, athletics, hockey, and more. Based in Hilversum, we bring together creative, passionate people to deliver high‑quality product for teams around the world — with a Swoosh on every kit.
The role involves being a commercially minded and analytically strong Demand Planner to join our growing Planning function within the Finance team. This is a high-impact role responsible for owning and continually improving the end‑to‑end demand planning process across our Teamwear category. You will play a critical role in ensuring optimal stock health, improving forecast accuracy, supporting commercial decision‑making, and driving operational efficiency across the business. This role is based in our Altrincham office, with a hybrid working pattern of three days in the office (Monday to Wednesday) and two days working remotely (Thursday and Friday). Occasional travel to our Netherlands office will be required (around once per quarter).
What you’ll do
- Demand Planning & Forecasting: Own and enhance SKU‑level demand forecasts in collaboration with Commercial, Product, and Finance teams. Translate quantitative and qualitative inputs into accurate forecasting models. Provide multi‑season buying forecasts to support supply chain and factory planning. Continuously improve forecast accuracy to support strategic stock‑buying decisions. Incorporate commercial growth assumptions, market trends, and upcoming projects into planning models. Be accountable for the stock position and visibility across multiple warehouse locations. Monitor and report on stock health using key KPIs, including clearance levels and size curve performance. Analyse sales performance to optimise inventory allocation and minimise excess stock exposure. Drive stock efficiency through data‑led recommendations and actionable insights. Support the development and execution of stock clearance and SLOB reduction strategies.
- Cross‑Functional Business Partnering: Be the key planning partner to commercial and marketplace teams globally. Support commercial decision‑making through insightful analysis and reporting. Collaborate closely with Supply Chain teams to understand and validate stock flow management. Build strong relationships across departments to ensure alignment with wider business objectives.
- Process Improvement & Reporting: Enhance and streamline existing reporting tools and planning processes. Identify automation opportunities to improve efficiency and data accuracy. Partner with the Data team to ensure consistency and integrity across reporting outputs. Deliver clear, accessible analysis that supports strategic and operational decision‑making.
What you’ll bring
- Hands‑on experience building processes, creating forecasts, challenging stakeholders and influencing buying decisions.
- Advanced Excel skills and data analysis capability – confident using pivot tables, XLOOKUPs/index‑match, forecasting models, stock KPI reporting, and translating large datasets into clear commercial actions and recommendations.
- Experience in demand planning and forecasting (typically 3+ years).
- Ability to manage competing priorities in a fast‑paced and dynamic environment.
- Strong commercial understanding with ability to communicate with colleagues across functions.
- Ideally a background of FMCG, Supply Chain and or Retail.
- Strong organisational and prioritisation skills with a flexible approach.
Why join Zelus?
At Zelus, you’ll have the opportunity to lead with impact, work closely with a globally recognised sports brand partner, and help shape how teamwear product comes to life for athletes worldwide. We offer a collaborative, inclusive culture, strong benefits, and real opportunities for professional growth. Zelus is proud to be an equal opportunity employer. We welcome and celebrate diversity in all its forms. If you require any reasonable adjustments during the recruitment process, please let us know and we will be happy to support you.
Demand Planner in Altrincham employer: ZELUS, Authorized Licensee of NIKE, Inc.
Zelus is an exceptional employer, offering a dynamic and inclusive work culture in Altrincham, where creativity and passion thrive. As part of the Nike Inc. family, employees benefit from strong professional growth opportunities, competitive benefits, and the chance to make a meaningful impact on athletes worldwide. With a hybrid working model and a commitment to diversity, Zelus fosters an environment where every team member can excel and contribute to the success of our global teamwear initiatives.
Contact Details:
ZELUS, Authorized Licensee of NIKE, Inc. Recruitment Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Demand Planner in Altrincham
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to people in the industry, especially those at Zelus or similar companies. A friendly chat can open doors and give you insights that might just land you an interview.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for the interview by knowing your stuff! Research Zelus, their products, and the demand planning process. Show them you’re not just another candidate but someone who genuinely cares about their mission.
✨Tip Number 3
Practice your analytical skills! Since the role requires strong data analysis, brush up on your Excel skills and be ready to discuss how you've used data to make decisions in past roles.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets seen. Plus, it shows you’re serious about joining the team at Zelus.
We think you need these skills to ace Demand Planner in Altrincham
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV:Make sure your CV is tailored to the Demand Planner role. Highlight your experience in demand planning, forecasting, and any relevant skills like advanced Excel. We want to see how your background aligns with what we're looking for!
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter:Your cover letter is your chance to shine! Use it to explain why you're passionate about the role and how you can contribute to our team at Zelus. Be sure to mention any specific experiences that relate to the job description.
Showcase Your Analytical Skills:Since this role requires strong analytical capabilities, make sure to include examples of how you've used data to drive decisions in your previous roles. We love seeing how you can turn numbers into actionable insights!
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 the role. Plus, it shows you’re keen on joining our team!
How to prepare for a job interview at ZELUS, Authorized Licensee of NIKE, Inc.
✨Know Your Numbers
As a Demand Planner, you'll need to demonstrate your analytical skills. Brush up on your Excel abilities and be ready to discuss how you've used data to drive decisions in the past. Prepare examples of forecasting models you've created or improved.
✨Understand the Business
Familiarise yourself with Zelus and its relationship with Nike. Understand the teamwear category and how demand planning impacts stock health and commercial decisions. Showing that you know the business will impress your interviewers.
✨Showcase Your Collaboration Skills
This role requires strong cross-functional partnerships. Be prepared to share experiences where you've successfully collaborated with other teams, like Commercial or Supply Chain, to achieve common goals. Highlight your communication skills and ability to influence stakeholders.
✨Prepare for Process Improvement Questions
Zelus is looking for someone who can enhance existing processes. Think about times when you've identified inefficiencies and implemented improvements. Be ready to discuss specific tools or methods you've used to streamline reporting or forecasting.
