Senior Executive - Merchandise Planning

Senior Executive – Merchandise Planning

SUMMARY

To support the Merchandise Planning function by managing demand forecasting, inventory allocation, and sales analysis across categories. The role ensures the right product is available at the right time and location, driving sales, margin, and stock efficiency. It requires strong analytical ability, commercial acumen, and cross-functional collaboration with Buying, Supply Chain, and Retail teams.

KEY RESPONSIBILITIES

Planning & Forecasting

• Assist in preparing pre-season merchandise plans (sales, margin, stock, intake) in line with business objectives.
• Support in-season management by monitoring sales trends, stock levels, and providing actionable recommendations.
• Forecast demand across categories and channels based on historical data, customer insights, and market trends.
• Track performance of new launches, promotions, and seasonal campaigns.

Inventory Management

• Ensure optimum inventory availability across stores / channels to achieve planned sell-through and stock turns.
• Assist in allocation and replenishment of stock based on store capacity, sales potential, and regional demand.
• Monitor ageing, slow movers, and overstock to recommend markdowns, promotions, or transfers.
• Track inbound and outbound stock movement in coordination with Supply Chain and Warehouse teams.

Analysis & Reporting

• Prepare weekly/monthly MIS reports covering sales, margins, stock turns, and other KPIs.
• Provide insights to Buying & Merchandising teams to improve assortment and financial planning.
• Analyze category / store / SKU level performance to highlight opportunities and risks.
• Conduct post-season analysis to capture learnings and guide future planning cycles.

Collaboration & Execution

• Work closely with Buyers to align product mix and availability with financial plans.
• Partner with Supply Chain to ensure timely delivery and store-level stock balance.
• Coordinate with Retail Operations to ensure smooth execution of allocations and replenishments.
• Support Marketing & VM teams with data-driven inputs for promotions and product displays.

Financial Management

• Assist in managing Open-to-Buy (OTB) budgets and monitor adherence to planned spends.
• Support margin optimization by tracking pricing, markdowns, and vendor terms.