Planning Manager

Role purpose

As a Planning Manager your primary responsibility is to oversee and manage the planning process to ensure optimal inventory levels, demand forecasting accuracy, and efficient supply chain operations. Reporting to the Head of Planning, you will be responsible for developing and executing planning and in season trading activities. Your role is crucial in driving business growth, maximizing sales potential, and ensuring customer satisfaction through effective inventory management. 

 The key duties and responsibilities of the role are as follows:  

Planning: 

• Oversee seasonal plans, analyze sku productivity, in-season and post-season hindsight by collaborating effectively with cross-functional partners. 

• Provide planning strategies for pre-season buys in order to have a good balance between Initial orders and stock for replenishment. Ensure the buys are aligned with Brand expectations in terms of growth and mix by maximizing the sales and minimizing the inventory exposure.  

• Manage and guide the Planners in the development of ideal assortment to maximize sales to achieve targets.  

• Analyze and identify opportunities to improve sku efficiency by monitoring pre-season development and in-season sales productivity to eliminate unproductive skus and drive selling productivity 

• Collaborate with cross-functional teams, including Sales, brand, and finance, to gather inputs and help planners to develop accurate demand forecasts. 

• Develop and evolve standardized reports and processes to drive efficiencies and advance the team’s productivity 

• Continuously assess and refine planning processes to enhance efficiency, accuracy, and overall supply chain performance 

 Inventory Management:

• Set up new way of working to optimize inventory levels and assortments across countries to meet customer demand while minimizing excess stock and stockouts. 

• Monitor stock levels and sell-through rates to identify potential risks and opportunities across countries 

• Collaborate with the buying and brand to ensure alignment between stock availability and sales strategies. 

• Oversee the markdown process to maximize gross margins and mitigate risk 

• Manage and Maintain a replenishment tool across countries to optimize inventory levels 

 Sales and Operations Planning (S&OP) and Supply Chain Collaboration:

• Facilitate the S&OP process by coordinating cross-functional communication, data analysis, and decision-making. 

• Provide insights and recommendations to improve operational efficiency, manage risks, and align supply with demand 

• Ensure accurate and timely reporting of key planning metrics and KPIs to support the S&OP process. 

• Collaborate with suppliers, vendors, and internal stakeholders to optimize supply chain processes and improve lead times. 

• Manage a team of Supply chain administrators for the smooth organisation of all Supply chain administrative tasks. 

Performance Monitoring and KPIs: 

• Define and track key performance indicators (KPIs) related to demand forecasting accuracy, inventory turnover, service levels, and stock availability. 

• Analyse planning metrics and provide regular reports to management, highlighting areas of improvement and potential risks. 

 Team Management and Development: 

• Lead, mentor, and develop a team of planners, in season traders and administrators providing guidance and support in their day-to-day activities. 

• Manage Territory budget for the Planning cost center. 

• Foster a collaborative and high-performance culture within the team, encouraging knowledge sharing and continuous improvement. 

 KPIs:  

• Sales and Revenue Growth: Measure the overall sales and revenue growth achieved through effective planning and forecasting strategies.  

• Inventory Turnover: Monitor the rate at which inventory is sold and replenished to ensure optimal stock levels, minimize excess inventory, and maximize inventory productivity.  

• Gross Margin: Track the gross margin percentage to assess the effectiveness of pricing, promotions, and inventory management strategies in driving profitability.  

• Excess & Terminal Stock rate.  

• Inventory Productivity: Monitor metrics such as inventory turnover, sell-through rates, and days of supply to assess the efficiency and effectiveness of inventory utilisation.  

• Team Performance: Evaluate the performance and development of the planning team, including metrics such as workload management, meeting deadlines, and achieving objectives.  

 Core competencies, knowledge, and experience: 

• Degree in supply chain management, logistics, business administration, or a related field (preferred). 

• 5+ years of experience in supply chain planning, demand forecasting, or inventory management within the retail and wholesale fashion industry. 

• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills, with proficiency in data analysis and demand planning tools. 

• In-depth knowledge of supply chain principles, inventory management, and forecasting methodologies. 

• Proficiency in using planning and ERP software systems. 

• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills to collaborate effectively with cross-functional teams and stakeholders. 

• Strong organizational and time management abilities to handle multiple priorities and meet deadlines in a fast-paced environment. 

• Leadership skills with the ability to inspire and motivate a team, foster collaboration, and drive performance. 

• Knowledge of fashion trends, market dynamics, and seasonal demand patterns in the retail and wholesale industry. 

• Continuous improvement mindset, with a focus on driving process optimization and enhancing supply chain efficiency.