Senior Merchandise Planner

Position Type: Full Time Schedule: Monday to Friday, 9AM to 4PM AEST About The Company Our client is a leading wholesaler that designs, sources, and imports products from around the world for major Australian retailers. Renowned for setting industry trends, they deliver innovative solutions across categories such as apparel, impulse, accessories, and travel luggage. As a market leader in VMI, brand management, licensing, and private label solutions, they design, manufacture, distribute, and manage a diverse portfolio of products and brands across department stores, discount department stores, supermarkets, independent retailers, and pharmacy channels. About The Role As a Senior Merchandise Planner , you will be responsible for leading the Allocation and Store Analysts, ensuring the right product is in the right place at the right time. As planning is the cog that keeps the whole machine running, your role is critical in aligning inventory with demand—managing procurement from China, partnering with sales to forecast needs, and overseeing allocations across both wholesale and retail channels to drive sales performance. Responsibilities Lead and support the Allocation & Store Analysts team. Ensure stock is allocated to the right stores at the right time, in line with agreed allocation methodologies. Analyze future sales forecasts by product and place stock orders to maintain appropriate warehouse inventory levels. Identify and action in-store sales opportunities in collaboration with Allocation & Store Analysts to maximize performance. Communicate with customers as needed regarding product availability, delivery, or planning updates. Coordinate with merchandising on upcoming in-store demand driven by seasonal events (e.g. School Holidays, Easter, Christmas). Complete monthly Open-to-Buy (OTB) reviews and reforecasting activities. Responsible for seasonal article creation and article master data maintenance. Manage monthly purchase order (PO) creation and ensure accuracy of procurement data. Competencies And Qualifications Must-Have Minimum 5 years of experience in retail allocations and merchandise planning Proven background in multi-store or multi-channel retail operations, with strong hands-on experience in stock allocations Demonstrated ability to use data to drive allocation accuracy and improve sales outcomes. Proficient in Microsoft Excel, with solid knowledge of intermediate formulas such as XLOOKUP, SUMIFS, COUNTIFS, MROUND, CEILING, and CONCATENATE. Skilled in sales forecasting and inventory planning—able to interpret sales trends and plan stock orders to maintain optimal warehouse levels. Knowledge of stock allocation principles and methodologies, ensuring accurate and timely stock placement across stores. Strong analytical thinking and decision-making skills. High attention to detail, including proactive stock management based on external factors (e.g., weather, regional events). Accountability and ownership—able to manage key tasks independently without constant reminders. Resilience and adaptability in a fast-paced, high-volume environment. Excellent communication and cross-functional collaboration abilities—comfortable working across sales, merchandising, and customer teams. Nice-to-Have System Proficiency (Planning Tools & ERP Systems): Proficient in using planning and ERP systems such as SAP, Oracle, or JDA, with the ability to efficiently input, manage, and update forecasts. Master Data & Purchase Order Management: Experienced in managing seasonal article creation, maintaining master data, and ensuring accurate and timely purchase order (PO) creation. Leadership Experience: Minimum of 1–2 years in a leadership or senior-level planning role, with demonstrated ability to guide and support team members. Technical Requirements Computer with a minimum of 16GB RAM Intel Core i5 processor (or equivalent). Headset (preferable noise canceling microphone) Fast/Stable and Reliable Internet Connection (At least 30 Mbps) Having an external monitor is a plus Webcam What We Offer 100% Remote Work 13th Month Pay Free Learning and Development Programs Application Process We understand that searching for a new job can be challenging, and we’re here to support you every step of the way. Our goal is to make the process as transparent and respectful as possible. Typically, the interview process includes a Recruiter Interview, Client Interview, and Practical Test, but this may vary depending on the role. Throughout each stage, we’ll keep you informed and provide feedback as quickly as we can, ensuring you feel valued and supported throughout your journey with us. #J-18808-Ljbffr