The Planner III mentors the Merchandise Planning Team, projects future sales into key categories, and optimises planning processes. This includes managing range assortments and replenishment, implementing distribution strategies, and providing guidance and support to team members. Responsibilities Drive product efficiencies and key commercial measures including sales, margin, markdowns, inventory levels, and stock turn Manage Open‑to‑Buy (OTB) for in‑season and forward budgets, ensuring disciplined stock and margin control Manage delivery performance and stock flow to ensure alignment with demand Conduct regular store visits to build deep understanding of store performance and customer behaviour Operate with a trader mindset, balancing risk and opportunity to maximise sales, margin, and stock efficiency Develop strategic, tactical, and operational category plans to achieve financial and stock targets Manage range assortments and store‑level distribution in partnership with the Buyer and Allocator Qualifications Minimum Matric qualification with a Degree or Diploma in Business or related field At least 3 years’ experience in retail apparel merchandise planning Proven retail apparel planning experience Strong MS Excel skills (advanced) for planning, analysis, forecasting, and reporting Strong analytical capability with the ability to proactively drive trading decisions through trend analysis and performance insight 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 Demonstrated knowledge of and skill in adaptability, decision making, interpersonal relations, problem solving, teamwork & written communication Comfortable and effective influencer Flexible to adapt to dynamic environment with changing priorities Sets ambitious goals and takes focused action to achieve desired outcomes, delivering measurable results Adapts effectively to situations that are complex, uncertain, or lacking guidelines and clear information Interprets and simplifies complex and contradictory information when resolving organisational problems Assesses and improves the efficiency, effectiveness, and quality of various work processes Develops plans and prioritises initiatives that align with the organisational goals and objectives Effectively adjusts behaviour, approach, and decision-making based on the situation Thinks and plans strategically, focusing on long‑term organisational goals and objectives Preference will be given but not limited to candidates from designated groups in terms of the Employment Equity Act. #J-18808-Ljbffr