Junior Merchandise Planner

SUMMARY:
Our large retail client, based in Durban, seeks an Assistant Merchandise Planner to develop, maintain, analyze and execute category level item plans for one or more departments. The Planner is also responsible for store allocations and works directly with Buyer and Merchandise & Planning Manager to achieve strategic goals. The position works directly with suppliers to exchange orders, sales data and item availability information. Manage, train and monitor the Orders Clerks.

POSITION INFO:
Key Responsibilities

Chain Item Planning

• Develop and manage item sales and inventory plans
• Create unit and weekly inventory plans using replenishment systems
• Monitor sales performance and adjust forecasts, receipts, and markdowns
• Recommend assortment, pricing, and promotional changes
• Collaborate with Buyers and suppliers to ensure product availability and align forecasts
• Communicate inventory risks and promotional requirements

• Manage inventory orders within OTB to ensure correct product flow by location, quantity, and timing
• Determine and execute allocation strategies and initial orders for new items
• Maintain supplier orders and ensure stock flow to stores and distribution centres
• Analyze inventory levels and adjust replenishment using systems/tools
• Collaborate with suppliers, logistics, stores, and operations to resolve supply issues and prioritize stock
• Maintain ordering calendars and manage allocation exceptions

• Partner with Buyers to align assortment plans with store profiles and replenishment strategies
• Support store grouping, bin allocation, and presentation stock requirements

• Maintain Open-to-Buy planning and financial targets
• Work with Buyers to optimize sales, margins, and inventory investment
• Analyze sales and margin performance to identify opportunities
• Develop and implement pricing and markdown strategies

• Monitor product performance to guide buying decisions
• Optimize SKU range to prioritize top-performing products
• Maintain system updates including pricing, listings, promotions, and supplier data

• Coordinate with Buyers and Marketing on promotions and advertising
• Process catalogues, track promotional stock, and verify advertising accuracy
• Monitor campaign performance and report on ROI
• Communicate promotional activities to stores

• Train and support Order Clerks; provide coaching and feedback
• Work cross-functionally with departments to improve processes and resolve issues

• Maintain confidentiality and comply with company policies and training
• Support system, process, and technology changes
• Generate reports, purchase orders, and perform additional duties as required

• Relevant degree/diploma
• Minimum 2 years’ experience in store planning at junior level
• Strong analytical, financial, and numerical reasoning skills with the ability to interpret data and make quick decisions
• Inventory management expertise, including replenishment systems, sales planning, forecasting, and stock optimization
• Advanced proficiency in retail merchandising tools and Microsoft applications (especially Excel and Outlook)
• High attention to detail with strong organizational skills and ability to manage multiple priorities effectively
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to engage effectively at all levels of an organization
• Problem-solving and creative thinking skills to develop practical and effective retail solutions
• Self-motivated and accountable with a strong drive for development, autonomy, and progression within retail (including aspiration toward Buyer level)