Head of Central Planning & Inventory (Anko Global)
Brighter Futures Start Here
We are an inclusive team who power two of the most iconic and loved brands, Kmart and Target. We have more than 50,000 passionate individuals across our stores, distribution centres, and offices around the globe.
Purpose of the role
The Head of Central Planning & Inventory plays a critical leadership role in shaping how AnkoGlobal plans, forecasts, and manages inventory across fast‑growing international markets. This role is accountable for building and leading scalable planning systems, processes, and operating frameworks that enable confident trading decisions, optimise stock outcomes, and support sustainable growth as the business expands globally.
Working at the intersection of merchandise planning, inventory, category, technology, and data, this role ensures Anko Global has robust, data‑driven planning capabilities that drive availability, margin optimisation, and inventory productivity.
What you will deliver:
* Lead enterprise‑wide merchandise planning capability Own the design, integration, and ongoing evolution of central planning and inventory systems, ensuring they support end‑to‑end merchandise lifecycle planning, forecasting, allocation, replenishment, and pricing.
* Build scalable planning frameworks and operating models Establish consistent planning rhythms, governance, and decision frameworks across seasonal, in‑season, and event‑based cycles, enabling accuracy and discipline across multiple markets and categories.
* Enable strong commercial outcomes Partner closely with Merchandise, Category, Supply Chain, Finance, and Country teams to translate trading strategies into system‑enabled plans that drive sales, margin, forecast accuracy, and healthy stock positions.
* Lead system transformation and change delivery Drive cross‑functional planning and inventory transformation initiatives, including prioritisation of system enhancements, user adoption, training, and benefits realisation.
* Strengthen data integrity and insight Ensure the quality and integrity of planning master data, forecasting inputs, and reporting, embedding strong analytics and performance insights to support better decision‑making.
* Develop high‑performing teams and capability Lead and develop a specialist team, while uplifting planning and system capability across the broader business through coaching, governance, and continuous improvement.
What you’ll bring:
Experience & Qualifications
* 10–15 years’ experience in retail merchandise planning, inventory management, or related commercial roles.
* Strong experience working with planning, forecasting, or retail ERP systems in complex environments.
* Demonstrated experience leading change, system implementations, or operating model uplift.
Technical & Functional Expertise
* Deep understanding of merchandise financial planning, forecasting, allocation, range planning, and lifecycle management.
* Strong analytical capability, with confidence working with data, planning tools, and advanced Excel.
* Proven ability to translate commercial strategy into system and process requirements.
* Experience working cross‑functionally with technology, data, and supply chain teams.
Leadership & Ways of Working
* Strong stakeholder leadership skills, with the ability to influence across functions and geographies.
* Comfortable operating in ambiguity and fast‑paced environments.
* A collaborative, commercially minded leader who balances strategic thinking with operational execution.
* Passion for building scalable systems, improving planning discipline, and developing people capability.
A place you can belong
At Anko we celebrate the rich diversity of the communities in which we operate and are committed to creating inclusive and safe environments where all team members can contribute and succeed. We believe that all team members should feel valued, respected, and safe irrespective of gender, ethnicity, indigeneity, religious beliefs, education, age, disability, family responsibilities, sexual orientation or gender identity and we encourage applications from all candidates.
Benefits we’ll offer you:
* Flexible hybrid working options through our Flex Where, Flex When, Flex Well policy.
* A team member discount card that gives you a discount at Kmart, Target, Officeworks and Bunnings.
* Access to the Kmart for You benefits program which entitles you to exclusive discounts and benefits in the areas of entertainment, travel, lifestyle, and health – with over 60 suppliers.
* A bonus program for eligible team members.
* Inclusive parental leave, and ongoing support offered through our partnership with Circle In for team members of all backgrounds and family circumstances.
* A dynamic learning and support program.
* Opportunity to fast‑track your career through our Mentor Program as a Mentee or Mentor.
* A Kudos recognition program, where you are nominated by your peers to spin a wheel and win prizes.
* Great career opportunities across the broader Wesfarmers Group.
We encourage you to tell us about any workplace adjustments that you would like, by emailing kmartgroupcareers@kmart.com.au.
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