Assistant Merchandise Planner (Temporary)

Assistant Merchandise Planner

The Assistant Merchandise Planner supports the merchandise planning team in driving sales, inventory productivity, profitability, and stock optimization across the Fashion categories. The role is responsible for sales analysis, inventory management, forecasting, reporting, and assisting with seasonal merchandise planning to ensure the right products are available at the right time and quantity.

The Role

Merchandise Planning & Analysis

• Assist in developing sales forecasts, inventory plans, and open-to-buy (OTB) budgets for assigned categories.
• Monitor weekly and monthly sales performance, inventory levels, and key merchandising KPIs.
• Analyze product performance, sell-through rates, stock turnover, and gross margin.
• Support category reviews and provide recommendations to maximize sales and profitability.
• Prepare regular reports and presentations for management review.

Inventory Management

• Track inventory levels and ensure optimal stock availability across stores and e-commerce channels.
• Monitor stock replenishment and identify opportunities to reduce overstock and stock shortages.
• Support allocation and replenishment activities to maintain balanced inventory across locations.
• Assist in markdown planning and inventory clearance strategies.

Forecasting & Budgeting

• Support annual budgeting, seasonal forecasting, and financial planning processes.
• Maintain and update demand forecasts based on historical trends, market conditions, and business objectives.
• Assist with sales and inventory projections for new product launches and promotions.

Reporting & Systems

• Maintain accurate merchandise planning data and reports.
• Update planning tools, inventory systems, and databases regularly.
• Ensure data integrity and accuracy in planning processes.

Skills & Competencies

• Strong analytical and numerical skills.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Excel (Pivot Tables, VLOOKUP/XLOOKUP, Power Query preferred).
• Excellent attention to detail and organizational skills.
• Strong communication and stakeholder management skills.
• Ability to manage multiple priorities in a fast-paced retail environment.
• Commercial awareness and interest in Fashion products.

Key Performance Indicators (KPIs)

• Sales achievement versus plan.
• Inventory turnover and stock productivity.
• Forecast accuracy.
• Stock availability and replenishment performance.
• Markdown efficiency and inventory optimization.
• Data accuracy and reporting timeliness.

The Ideal Candidate

• Bachelor's degree in Business, Merchandising, Retail Management, Supply Chain, Finance, or a related discipline.
• 1–3 years of experience in merchandise planning, inventory planning, allocation, retail merchandising, or data analysis. Fresh Graduate is welcome too.
• Experience in luxury retail, Home & Lifestyle, Jewellery, or fashion retail is an advantage.