Job Description The Planning Manager I is responsible for interpreting the overall merchandise strategy and developing a high-level merchandise financial plan by department. This includes managing the departmental inventory, compiling and producing reports, and building high-performance teams through effective people management. Responsibilities Interpret and develop merchandise strategies aligned to overall business objectives and market trends Analyse sales data, seasonal patterns, and promotional performance to forecast customer demand Develop and manage high-level merchandise financial plans to support revenue and profitability targets Oversee departmental inventory by setting stock parameters, managing safety stock, and minimising over/understock situations Collaborate with buyers, suppliers, logistics, and distribution centres to ensure efficient product flow to stores Plan and execute assortments and promotional activities to maximise performance during key trading periods Lead scenario planning and promotional forecasting to optimise trading outcomes Compile and analyse weekly, monthly, and ad-hoc reports to track performance and inform decision-making Drive results in a fast-paced retail environment by proactively adjusting plans based on trading performance Lead, coach, and develop planners and allocators to build a high-performance, engaged team Provide clear communication, feedback, and development plans to ensure team alignment and growth Oversee strategic initiatives such as new store openings, revamps, and closures Ensure alignment across teams and functions with overall business strategy and objectives Qualifications Bachelor’s degree in business, Commerce, Finance, or a related field Minimum 7 years’ experience in retail planning At least 2 years’ experience within a branded retail environment. Experience with Retail related Planning tools Proficiency in Microsoft Excel (data analysis, forecasting, modelling) Demonstrated experience in mentoring and developing teams Experience within an omni retail environment, a history of achievement and delivering results within a fast-paced retail environment, experience in scenario and promotional planning, strong understanding of customer demographics, and in-depth knowledge of the planning process in retail. Skills Analytical Processes Commercial Acumen Contract Management Customer Service Delivery Planning & Organising Policy & Procedures Market Research and Analysis Supplier Management Requirements Analysis Global Sourcing Strategic eCommerce Behaviours Being Resilient - rebounding from setbacks and adversity when facing difficult situations. Building Effective Teams - forms, develops and leads a group of individuals toward the achievement of a common team objective Builds Networks - establishes and nurtures internal and external relationships in order to create robust, and mutually beneficial, partnerships Cultivates Innovation - creates an environment that fosters and nurtures a culture of creativity which drives success Decision Quality - consistently makes timely, well-rounded and informed decisions Drives Engagement - inspires, motivates and empowers individuals to go above and beyond for the benefit of the team and the organisation Ensures Accountability - takes accountability and ensures others are held to account on agreed upon performance targets Manages Complexity - interprets and simplifies complex and contradictory information when resolving organisational problems Organisational Savvy - understands and navigates dynamics created by processes, systems, and people Situational Adaptability - effectively adjusts their behaviour, approach, and decision-making based on the situation Strategic Mindset - thinks and plans strategically, focusing on the long-term goals and objectives of the organisation Preference will be given, but not limited to candidates from designated groups in terms of the Employment Equity Act. #J-18808-Ljbffr