Cluster Assortment Planner

Job summary

Assortment Planner - 12 month Fixed Term Responsibility: A strong assortment planner is responsible for execution of buying and merchandising activities across all collections and channels. The successful candidate feels comfortable in being the main point of contact for knowledge of up-to-date product/country/store performance insight, stock analysis and market trends. The role requires attention to detail, care and passion for product together with adherence to seasonal calendar dates and solution-driven approach through critical thinking and creativity. This role will report to the cluster collection merchandising manager and will assist leadership in developing, executing, and communicating a product strategy that meets or exceeds financial goals and global product strategy. Merchandising Strategy: * Execute buying and merchandising plans that drive sales, enhance product visibility,and optimize inventory levels across all channels. * Analyze sales data, market trends and customer feedback to make informed decisions on product assortments. * Look for growth opportunities through relevant analysis of product/category/collection and metal at market/channel/store level. * Drive and execute store tiering strategy by market to ensure an effective and high-quality product range that meets customer needs. * Master product/country/store perspective to lead effective merchandising strategy and orchestrate operational changes in the assortment range including local add on items. * Prepare analysis and files for cross- functional meetings with VM, training and marketing team to ensure right visibility and knowledge of the product according to the merchandising strategy. * Responsible of buying and demand planning of the wholesale channel. * Support outlet product range and replenishment guidance for the channel. * Support Collection Merchandising manager with all operational activities related to new store openings and relocations. * Responsible of input of assortment of new store openings and relocations in the system to support global allocation. * Maintain operational functions, including: product systems, SKU management, and support with details and content for product replenishment in wholesale and outlets. * Range architecture development to capture channel, market and partner requirements inline with overall brand goals. Market Analysis and Trend Forecasting: * Stay abreast of industry trends, consumer behavior, and competitive landscape to identify opportunities and threats. * Conduct regular market analysis to hunt product opportunities and brief into global to penetrate local product opportunities. * Monitor and advise on market needs to capture cultural relevance and market gaps to drive future growth opportunities. Brand Alignment: * Ensure all buying and merchandising activities align with global strategy, brand's identity, values, and positioning. Financial Performance: * Monitor and analyze financial performance, suggesting actions to achieve sales and profitability targets. Inventory Management: * Monitor inventory KPIs, including stock levels, sell-through rates and stock turnover. * Execute analysis on inventory performance, potential issues and actionable insights. * Prepare and present weekly/monthly reports detailing store performance and actions. Collaboration and Communication: * Tight collaboration with Global merchandising for the implementation of collection strategy and product brief. * Work closely with retail network (DSM/RSM/SM) to understand potential of expansion of collection/category and ensure smooth inventory processes if any issue. Candidate Description * 3-5 years+ experience in product ownership / management, demonstrating successful development and delivery of product strategies, roadmaps through to product launch and optimization * Experience and passion for the cluster retail market and a deep understanding of the customer * Ability to quickly understand customer, competition area and business value of new products * Is proactive in planning to achieve targets and objectives which deliver profitable outcomes * Strong communication skills with business stakeholders * Delivery focused with excellent attention to detail and strong drive to resolve issues * Strong team working and collaboration skills * Respects individual's views and positively contributes to a learning environment in which individuals are supported and encouraged to excel * Behaves consistently and with integrity at all times, realising everyone's potential to get the best possible result and live the values BH35711