Retail Planner

Position Purpose Supply Planning & Replenishment • Maintain the weekly and monthly supply plans in line with forecast and stock requirements. • Maintain and monitor key supply parameters: lead times, minimum order quantities, and safety stock levels. • Highlight and resolve potential supply gaps, delays, or risks through proactive communication. • Work closely with Supply Chain to confirm delivery schedules and prioritize stock allocation when needed. Demand Forecasting & Analysis • Assist in building, maintaining, and reviewing the monthly demand forecast at SKU, brand, and channel level. • Consolidate historical sales, market trends, promotions, and new product introductions to support forecast generation. • Participate in monthly demand review meetings (S&OP) to align forecasts with commercial and marketing teams. • Monitor and report on forecast accuracy (MAPE, bias, etc.) and identify opportunities for continuous improvement. Data Management & Reporting • Assist in maintaining accurate forecasting data and planning parameters in the SAP IBP system. • Generate reports and dashboards to track key metrics such as forecast accuracy, sales vs forecast, and stock performance. • Support the preparation of planning packs and presentations for management and S&OP reviews. Inventory & Service Support • Monitor inventory levels and highlight risks of potential stock-outs or overstocking. • Support in balancing stock availability across channels while minimizing write-offs and obsolescence. • Contribute to analysis of seasonal build-up plans and new product launch readiness. Process & System Improvement • Support improvements in forecasting tools, processes, and reporting templates. • Participate in system testing or upgrades related to planning and data management. • Recommend ways to simplify workflows and enhance forecast visibility. Requirements • Bachelor’s degree in Supply Chain Management, Logistics, Business Science, Economics, or related field. • 1–2 years’ experience in demand planning, forecasting, or supply chain analysis (FMCG or retail environment preferred). • Strong analytical and numerical skills with proficiency in Excel (pivot tables, lookups, data modelling). • Experience with ERP or forecasting systems (e.g., SAP IBP, APO) is an advantage. • Comfortable working with large datasets and drawing actionable insights. • Self-motivated team member who can drive resolution to issues with strong problem-solving skills. Please email cv to marlene@servicesolutions.co.za Please note that in line with our client’s recruitment process, relevant checks will be completed


Consultant Name: Marlene Smith