Junior Merchandise Planner

This key position is focused on leveraging data and analytics to drive business outcomes in the areas of sales, gross profit, and inventory productivity. Reporting to the Senior Planner, this role brings structure and process to our Buying decisions and directly influences our profitability through Inventory outcomes with data-based decision-making.

• Brand Portfolio Management: Support for all VF Brands with ownership of Timberland, Herschel & Superga.
• Reporting and Insights: Manage all reporting for weekly and monthly financial reviews providing detailed insights into Sales, GP, and Inventory targets.
• Forecast Review and Planning: Lead and manage the forecast review process in collaboration with the buying team to identify opportunities and risks and put plans in place to deliver budget outcomes.
• Inventory Management: Manage the OTB and purchases to ensure targets are achieved, and ensure that inventory levels are per the agreed parameters and manage aged stock within agreed benchmarks.
• Business Analysis: Investigate and provide analysis of business and financial challenges, trends, and improvement opportunities.
• Post-Seasonal and Semi-Annual Reviews: Undertake post-seasonal and semi-annual reviews to provide insights into the forward strategy of the Brand and key actions that need to be taken.
• Product Allocation and Replenishment: Manage the allocation and replenishment of product to maximize sales and deliver profitable outcomes in conjunction with the Allocator.
• Inventory Optimization: Manage and maintain in-stocks of Repeatable lines (Core Lines).
• Markdown and Promotional Activity: Manage the building and activation of all markdown and promotional activity.
• Inventory Movement: Manage the movement of markdown stock into Outlets.
• Merchandise Strategy Development: Planning and development of Merchandise strategies in conjunction with the Buyer.
• Stock Level Management: Determine, review, and maintain optimum stock levels within both DC, Online, and stores.
• Product Analysis: Product analysis to identify sales growth opportunities/risks in the business.
• Buy Planning: Develop a framework to ensure the buy reflects strategic intent and delivery of budget expectations.
• Performance Monitoring: Monitor sales/performance trends, recommending corrective actions.
• Reporting and Analytics: Manage the delivery of robust and consistent reporting, and develop new reports to meet the changing needs of the business.
• Ad Hoc Analysis: Undertake ad hoc analysis as required.
• Data Integrity: Ensure integrity of data and tools.
• Collaboration: Build collaborative relationships with the key teams and departments within the business e.g. buying, eCommerce, retail, marketing, and inventory.

• Strong Numerical and Analytical Skills: Strong numerical and analytical skills.
• Leadership Skills: Leadership skills.
• OTB Management Experience: Proven ability to manage an OTB.
• Forecasting Ability: Forecasting ability.
• Data Analysis and Interpretation: Ability to understand data and analytics and make recommendations as a result.
• Inventory Productivity Improvements: Proven ability to drive inventory productivity improvements.
• Strategic Thinking: Ability to take a proactive approach and think strategically.
• Excel Skills: Advanced Excel skills with the ability to lead Excel-based projects.
• Collaboration and Communication: Ability to work collaboratively as part of a team.
• Previous Experience: Previous Experience in both Planner roles and Inventory Management roles.
• Accent Group Core Values: Affiliation with Accent Group Core values 'Make it happen' attitude.