Product Planner (Kids)

About the role

Ackermans is looking for experienced planners to deliver, implement and manage departmental business plans that support the merchandise strategy for its KIDS business unit. The ideal candidate understands merchandise products in a value retail business, is self-motivated, passionate about data-driven performance and able to keep up with the energy of a retail environment.

Key responsibilities

• Deliver and implement departmental business plans supporting the SBU's merchandise strategy
• Manage departmental forecasts to achieve agreed growth and profitability
• Prepare and deliver merchandise assortment plans aligned with the signed-off business strategy
• Ensure sufficient inflows to maintain agreed replenishment service levels
• Provide accurate, timely merchandise information to minimise risk and maximise opportunities
• Execute and manage project plans where applicable

Required profile

• Grade 12 certificate / Matric (essential)
• Minimum of 3-5 years of product planning experience in retail and/or FMCG
• Replenishment and assortment planning experience, and prior store planning experience
• Prior store management experience (1-2 years) and exposure to logistics and supply chain processes
• Experience with planning systems and recent Microsoft software, including Word and Excel; advanced Excel is an asset
• Preferred: degree in Finance, Accounting, Mathematics, Stats or Business Science, or National Diploma in Internal Auditing, Cost and Management Accounting or Financial Information Systems

Required skills

• Knowledge of the retail merchandise cycle (buying, planning, logistics, stores), seasonal and non-seasonal replenishment, and the South African retail clothing market
• Numerical, analytical and logical problem-solving skills
• Planning, organisation, time management, conflict resolution and collaboration skills
• Resilience, assertiveness, deadline orientation and effective communication