Head of Merchandise Planning – Forever New Clothing
Step into the world of Forever New, where fashion meets innovation. As one of Australia’s leading global fashion brands, we’ve grown from our Melbourne roots to over 450 stores worldwide with a thriving online presence. Our success is driven by our passionate community of creative thinkers, retail experts, and forward‑looking innovators who bring our vision to life.
Benefits
* Enjoy a generous 40% employee discount, with additional discounts for family and friends.
* Subsidised daily coffee and lunch at our on‑site café.
* Celebrate special moments with loyalty and birthday leave.
* Receive referral incentives for introducing talented people to our team.
* Access to wellbeing and sustainability initiatives that support your overall health and purpose.
* Thrive through continuous learning and development programmes.
* Be recognised through our reward and service awards programmes.
* Benefit from subsidised parking at our vibrant Richmond Head Office.
* Gain global exposure across five continents, expanding your horizons and career opportunities.
Role Overview
In this pivotal role, you’ll lead the merchandise planning function, ensuring we maximise profitability through effective stock, range, and financial management. You’ll partner with Buying, Retail Operations, Supply Chain, and International teams to deliver well‑balanced ranges, drive trade outcomes, and optimise stock across all channels and markets.
Responsibilities
* Lead the planning team, providing coaching, mentorship, and development opportunities.
* Set and manage seasonal budgets, sales plans, profit targets, and open‑to‑buy at category and channel levels.
* Optimise stock allocation across stores and channels to maximise sell‑through and profitability.
* Plan and trade international markets based on local strategy, demand, and customer insights.
* Collaborate with Buying and Design to build commercially balanced, customer‑relevant ranges.
* Monitor range and sales performance, taking action on under‑performing categories and opportunities.
* Influence decisions across the business through analysis, reporting, and clear communication.
* Ensure planning processes, systems, and KPI management support effective business decision‑making.
Qualifications
* 5‑10 years’ experience in fashion retail planning, including several years in a leadership role.
* Proven ability to lead and develop a high‑performing team.
* Strong financial and commercial acumen, with experience managing stock, margin, and profit.
* Advanced planning systems knowledge (WSSI, Excel; Power BI advantageous).
* Excellent communication, influencing and stakeholder management skills.
* Strong analytical skills and attention to detail.
* Ability to work autonomously and collaboratively, managing multiple priorities in a fast‑paced environment.
* Knowledge of retail competitors, customer trends, and international markets.
Why This Role Is Exciting
* Directly influence commercial outcomes across local and international markets.
* Lead a high‑performing team in a fast‑growing, global fashion brand.
* Collaborate cross‑functionally with teams at every level of the business.
* Work in a culture that’s values‑driven, supportive and inspiring.
* Drive meaningful change through strategic planning, stock optimisation and commercial insight.
Values
* Think Customer
* Respect for All
* Keep it Simple
* Take Responsibility
* Act with Pace
Location
Richmond, Melbourne, Victoria
Seniority level
Director
Employment type
Full‑time
Job function
Management and Manufacturing
Industries
Retail
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