Join one of Australia and New Zealand's most customer centric retail groups - Accent Group. With a portfolio of over 900 stores, 34 iconic brands (including HOKA, Skechers, Dr. Martens, Platypus, Hype DC, Stylerunner, Nude Lucy, The Athletes Foot, Sports Direct, Glue Store and Vans), and 30+ online platforms, we're not just selling shoes - we're shaping the future of retail. At Accent Group, we're driven by innovation, passionate about people, and serious about creating standout career opportunities. Whether you're starting your retail journey or looking to grow into leadership, you'll be part of a culture that values individuality, rewards performance, and empowers you to make your mark (in your kicks of course!)
About the Role:
The Merchandise Planner plays a crucial role in ensuring that the right products are available at the right time and in the right quantities to meet customer demand. This role involves analysing sales trends, forecasting demand, and creating effective merchandise plans that drive sales and profitability. The Merchandise Planner will collaborate closely with buying, marketing, retail, e-commerce and supply chain teams to optimize inventory levels, maximize sales potential, and minimize markdowns.
Your key responsibilities will include:
* Develop and maintain merchandise plans by category, style, and department, ensuring alignment with business objectives and sales targets.
* Analyse historical sales data, current trends, and seasonality to forecast demand and recommend replenishment strategies.
* Collaborate with buyers to ensure the appropriate product assortments are selected to meet customer preferences and maximize sales potential.
* Monitor inventory levels across channels and locations, ensuring optimal stock levels and reducing out-of-stock situations.
* Work with the supply chain team to optimize stock flow and manage lead times to ensure timely product availability.
* Coordinate with the warehouse and logistics teams to support inventory management and delivery schedules.
* Regularly review sales performance against targets and adjust plans accordingly to meet or exceed objectives.
* Provide detailed reporting on product performance, markdowns, stock turn, and other key metrics.
* Identify and analyse trends in customer demand, recommending adjustments to inventory plans and promotions.
* Work cross-functionally with buying, marketing, and merchandising teams to align strategies and ensure seamless product execution.
* Communicate regularly with vendors and suppliers to monitor product availability and ensure timely deliveries.
* Present merchandise plans and performance reports to senior leadership as needed.
* Manage and adhere to merchandise budgets, ensuring that sales, margin, and inventory targets are met.
* Collaborate with the finance team to ensure pricing strategies are aligned with financial goals and profitability objectives.
To succeed in this role, you will need to have the following:
* 3+ years of experience in merchandise planning or related role, preferably in fashion and retail.
* Strong analytical skills and the ability to interpret complex data and trends.
* Excellent communication and collaboration skills with the ability to work across teams.
* Proficiency in Microsoft Excel (advanced skills required), and experience with merchandise planning software (e.g., FSR, SAP, JDA, or similar tools).
* Strong attention to detail, organization, and time management skills.
* Ability to thrive in a fast‐paced, deadline‐driven environment.
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