Merchandise Planning Manager

13 hours ago

Melbourne, Victoria, Australia Private Advertiser Full time $120,000 - $180,000 per year

About the Role

We are seeking an experienced and strategic Merchandise Planning Manager to lead the planning function across our brand. This is a pivotal role responsible for driving commercially sound merchandise strategies that optimise sales, margin, stock turn, and inventory productivity across all channels.

Reporting to the General Manager – Planning, you will provide leadership, strategic insight, and operational excellence, influencing product strategy, financial performance, and in-season management to deliver business goals and market share growth.

Key Responsibilities

  • Partner with GM – Planning to define and execute merchandise strategy and business plans.
  • Prepare seasonal financial plans, OTB, and trade plans, and monitor sales, margins, and stock productivity.
  • Lead, mentor, and develop the Merchandise Planning team, fostering a high-performing, collaborative culture.
  • Conduct forecast reviews, Post-Season Reviews, and provide actionable insights to optimise performance.
  • Influence product and assortment strategy and support range planning and buy sessions.
  • Collaborate with Retail, Digital, Logistics, IT, and senior management to align merchandise and financial strategies.
  • Guide trading decisions in-season, responding to trends and performance patterns.
  • Lead and support strategic projects, process improvements, system upgrades, and change initiatives.

Qualifications & Experience

  • Minimum 5 years' experience in merchandise planning, forecasting, or a related retail/fashion planning role.
  • Strong analytical and commercial acumen, with a proven ability to translate insights into actionable strategies.
  • Demonstrated leadership experience in managing and developing high-performing teams.
  • Solid experience in financial planning, budgeting, OTB management, and inventory optimisation.
  • Excellent cross-functional collaboration and stakeholder management skills.
  • Strong problem-solving, decision-making, and strategic thinking abilities.
  • Exceptional communication skills, both written and verbal, with the ability to influence at all levels.
  • Highly organised, detail-oriented, and able to manage competing priorities in a fast-paced environment.
  • Proficiency in planning and reporting systems, with advanced Excel skills; experience with ERP systems is advantageous.

Why Join Us

This is an exciting opportunity to shape the planning function and influence the future direction of a growing, dynamic brand. You will work with a passionate team, enjoy a supportive culture, and have the chance to make a measurable impact on business success.

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