Merchandise Planner

**Demand Planner**

As a Demand Planner for our footwear brand, you will be responsible for forecasting consumer demand, developing accurate sales projections, and optimizing inventory levels to meet customer needs while minimizing excess stock. By analyzing historical sales data, market trends, and input from sales and marketing teams, you will play a crucial role in ensuring that the right products are available at the right time and in the right quantities to support sales objectives and maximize profitability.

**Key Responsibilities**:
**Demand Forecasting**: Utilize statistical forecasting techniques and demand planning software to develop accurate sales forecasts for footwear products across various channels and market segments.

**Sales Collaboration**: Collaborate closely with sales and marketing teams to gather market intelligence, understand promotional activities, and incorporate sales forecasts into the demand planning process.

**Inventory Management**: Analyze inventory levels, lead times, and production capacity to develop optimal inventory targets and safety stock levels. Ensure alignment between forecasted demand and inventory availability.

**New Product Introductions**: Work with product development and marketing teams to forecast demand for new product launches, considering factors such as consumer trends, competitive landscape, and historical data from similar product introductions.

**Seasonal Planning**: Lead the demand planning process for seasonal collections and special promotions, ensuring timely production and distribution to meet customer demand during peak seasons.

**Supply Chain Coordination**: Coordinate closely with suppliers, manufacturers, and logistics partners to ensure timely delivery of inventory and minimize supply chain disruptions.

**Performance Analysis**: Monitor key performance indicators (KPIs) such as forecast accuracy, inventory turnover, and service level performance. Analyze variances and trends to identify opportunities for improvement and optimization.

**Continuous Improvement**: Identify opportunities to streamline processes, improve forecasting accuracy, and enhance inventory management practices. Implement best practices and leverage technology solutions to drive efficiencies in the demand planning function.

**Cross-functional Collaboration**: Collaborate with cross-functional teams including product development, merchandising, and finance to align demand planning strategies with overall business objectives and financial targets.

**Reporting and Communication**: Prepare regular reports and presentations to communicate demand forecasts, inventory projections, and performance metrics to stakeholders across the organization.

**Qualifications**:
Bachelor's degree in Business Administration, Supply Chain Management, Statistics, or related field. Advanced degree or certification in supply chain or operations management is a plus.

5+ years of experience in demand planning, inventory management, or related roles within the footwear industry or consumer goods sector.

Proficiency in demand planning software and advanced Excel skills. Experience with ERP systems and forecasting tools preferred.

Strong analytical and problem-solving skills, with the ability to interpret complex data and trends to make informed decisions.

Excellent communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to collaborate effectively with internal and external stakeholders.

Detail-oriented with strong organizational skills and the ability to manage multiple priorities in a fast-paced environment.

Knowledge of supply chain principles, inventory management best practices, and understanding of footwear market dynamics.

Ability to thrive in a team-oriented environment and drive cross-functional collaboration to achieve common goals.

This position offers the opportunity to play a key role in shaping the demand planning strategy for a leading footwear brand, driving operational excellence and supporting business growth initiatives. If you are passionate about supply chain management, excel at data analysis, and thrive in a dynamic and collaborative environment, we encourage you to apply.

Pay: From AED1.00 per month

Application Question(s):

- do you have experience with footwear ?