Merchandising and Planning Manager – Fast Growing Premium Fashion Brand Merchandising and Planning Manager – Fast Growing Premium Fashion BrandRole summaryThis position will be leading the planning and distribution value chain in the Retail and E-Commerce channels according to the purpose, vision and values whilst managing all pricing, forecasts and procurement stock and meeting profit targets.Roles and responsibilitiesUnderstand the business strategy and drive the development of product strategies by channel and rangeEnsure optimal samples are ordered in accordance with planned merchandising strategiesEnsure that the buy-plans are well detailed and clearly understood by all relevant stakeholdersEvaluate customer sales through data and trading patternsManage a consumption tool to react early to effectively plan across channelsWith the sales and marketing functions, manage the full GTM sales process from planning, co-ordinating and developing sales tools that directly support the sell-in process for both existing and new accounts (catalogues, pricelist lists, order forms, delivery dates, showroom prep, catering, trade marketing support)Ensure segmentation of the product line to address account needs and to differentiate between WS and PTC channelsPlanningImplement the integrated planning process that deals with customer demand, upselling opportunities, EOL and stock managementManage planning tool to establish quantities to be purchased for the season per channelEvaluate all order or cancellation opportunitiesEnsure purchase orders are placed with company suppliers in line with companies OTB budgetsEnsure stock turn objectives and profit targets are metEnsuring that Retail buy-plans are well detailed and clearly understood by team members and relevant stakeholdersManagement of the Retail range assortments and replenishmentAnalysis of Retail sell through with necessary systems (Excel, Cictech and SAP B1) to optimize seasonal orders and replenishment to stores.Communicating with Stores where necessary to understand trading patternsMonitoring in season trade and react accordinglyEnsuring product plan meets location plan targets and correct stock allocations meet sales targetsEnsuring sufficient inflows of product to meet acceptable in stock percentages in order to maintaining agreed replenishment service levelsEnsure space optimization per store in accordance with sell through information (Gender, Silhouette, colour etc.)Providing accurate and timeous reporting to ensure the business can react to situations and management has the necessary information to minimise risk and optimise business opportunities.Supply ChainMeet range development deadlines in order to ensure supplier deadlines are metEnsure accurate requested ship dates to ease cash flow pressuresEstablish and maintain realistic supply-chain based performance deadlines, lead times etc.Manage the reconciliation of OOR against purchase order identifying irregularities and highlighting this to the PlannersManage the delivery of samples to Head Office as necessary maintaining responsibility for this inventory until signed over to the relevant merchantSplit Purchase Orders to reflect shipping inventory and communicate this to all partiesEstablish shipment plan and identify consolidation opportunities for cost reduction based on OOR reconciliationStockholder ManagementBuild relationships with key stakeholders (Group Planning Lead etc.), customers, supplier and partnersReportingDevelop and continually evaluate all reports in order to monitor stock arrival in SA, sales, history, seasonal sales analysis, aged inventory etc.Provide monthly reports as required by management from time to time.People ManagementEnsure role clarity and effective goal-settingMentor and coach the Planners, Junior Planner and Inventory Controller to ensure to ensure an optimal team strategy is achievedHandle IR issues and performance management and discuss disciplinary requirements with HCMManage the GOLP process of for all team membersMonitor the application of the HR Value Chain and adherence to people-related SOP’sRequirements:Relevant Degree (B-Com) or related Diploma in Retail Management/Planning/Supply Chain/Merchandise Management3 - 5 years’ experience in a similar role3 - 5 years’ Management experienceKnowledge of an ERP systemA strong understanding of fashion retail and the market opportunities within the retail, wholesale and e-commerce sectorAbility to dissect large/complex data into meaningful and easy to understand reportsBudgeting and forecastingCapacity to collaborate, integrate & facilitate teamwork (ability to network, build and sustain stakeholder relationships internally as well as with external stakeholders is critical)Business and commercial acumenExcellent negotiation and communication skillsHighly organized and deadline drivenAdvanced Report WritingHigh attention to detailAdvanced ExcelOwn vehicleYou get to work for a rapidly expanding distributor with aspirational brands.Personal TrainerYogaPension FundMedical aid with Gap coverStaff discount (50% off for you and your family across all the brands within the group)Company performance incentive schemeLong-service incentivesHolistic Employee Wellness programmeThe group prides itself in its effort to drive continuous employee engagement activities to enable a connected culture.Should you not be contacted regarding this position within 2 weeks from the closing date, please regard your application as unsuccessful. 2 people have applied for this job. 93 people have viewed this job.#J-18808-Ljbffr