Senior Planner Cape Town

* *Bachelor’s Degree or Advanced Diploma (Commerce, Finance, Mathematics or Economics degree preferable)* * *3-5 years Commercial / Retail experience specifically in Planning* * Implementation of Planning systems and processes * Oversee the In-stock function including demand planning, ordering and capacity management in line with department strategy * Deliver accurate insights and reports on a timely basis on which department managers can base commercial decisions and deliver on revenue and margin plans * Create sustainable In-stock systems and processes in partnership with central analytics, technical and product teams * Planning management to support department procurement cycles including but not limited to; seasonality, promotion planning, reaction, import purchasing & continual replenishment * Develop & own the bottom-up budgeting plan cycle and reviews in line with performance, margin, stock turn & departmental strategy objectives * Own and compile the annual retail sales budget, quarterly plan, working plan as well as on-going reforecasting at category and product levels to ensure budgets are achieved * Manage end to end inventory availability and inventory health including improved in-stock rates (availability), inventory planning at categorisation, systematic forecasting, markdown and clearance provisions, return to supplier activities and warehouse space management * Drive complex business analysis that identifies opportunities to improve cost structure and profitability, focusing on continual contribution margin improvements. * Lead a team of buying assistants; hire, manage and develop a team * Support the operations team in delivering a world-class customer experience – monitor and scrutinise department returns, defects and write offs, supporting the customer service team on product queries and resolving any customer complaints * Proven track record in planning, inventory management and forecasting * Proven track record in spend management (OTB, Margin management, mark down controls) * Strong numerical and analytical aptitude, and high proficiency creating and managing advanced models * Strong proficiency in using analytical tools (Microsoft Excel, SQL, and statistical software * Experience with process improvement techniques Experience in implementing Planning systems and processes * Proven track record in planning, inventory management and forecasting * Proven track record in spend management (OTB, Margin management, mark down controls) * Strong numerical and analytical aptitude, and high proficiency creating and managing advanced models * Strong proficiency in using analytical tools (Microsoft Excel, SQL, and statistical software * Experience with process improvement techniques Experience in implementing Planning systems and processes