Merchandise Planner
SOC 13-1022.00 · ESCO 3323 · OSCA 619932
Role snapshot
Overview
A Merchandise Planner is responsible for analysing sales data, inventory levels, and market trends to accurately forecast product demand and plan optimal stock quantities. This role involves close collaboration with buyers and suppliers to strategically optimise product mix, minimise markdowns, and maximise profitability across various retail channels, ensuring product availability meets customer needs while maintaining healthy inventory turns and financial targets.
Directly influences a company's profitability and customer satisfaction by ensuring the right products are available at the right time and price, minimising waste and maximising sales opportunities.
On the job
- Analyse historical sales data and current market trends to develop accurate demand forecasts.
- Develop and manage merchandise plans, including inventory levels, stock allocation, and replenishment strategies.
- Collaborate with buying teams to define product assortments and ensure alignment with financial goals.
- Monitor inventory performance, identify slow-moving or excess stock, and recommend markdown or promotional strategies.
- Prepare financial reports and present insights on sales, inventory, and profitability to management.
Tools & technology
Average salary
Job outlook
StableDemand is steady. This is an established role with consistent hiring across sectors.
Education & training
A bachelor's degree in business, retail management, supply chain, or a related analytical field is typically required. Some roles may accept equivalent experience or a certificate in merchandise planning.
Career pathways
WHERE YOU COULD GO
CURRENT ROLE
Merchandise Planner
Sales & Business Development
ADJACENT MOVES
STARTING POINTS
Who thrives here
Interest profile
enterprising · ECR
People who enjoy influencing business outcomes, working with structured data, and driving tangible results in a commercial environment tend to thrive in this role.
Personality characteristics
Organised & Detail-Oriented
Thrives on structured data analysis and meticulous planning to ensure accuracy in inventory and forecasts.
Analytical Thinker
Enjoys dissecting complex sales trends and market data to make informed strategic decisions.
Strategic Planner
Motivated by developing and executing plans that directly impact business profitability and efficiency.
Collaborative
Works effectively with buyers, suppliers, and sales teams to align on product strategies and achieve shared goals.
Resilient under pressure
Manages multiple priorities and adapts plans quickly in response to market changes or unexpected challenges without excessive stress.
Best for
- Individuals who enjoy transforming complex data into actionable plans that drive financial results.
- Those who thrive in a dynamic retail environment and enjoy optimising processes and inventory flows.
Watch out for
- The role can be fast-paced, especially during peak seasons, requiring quick adjustments to plans.
- Requires constant interaction and negotiation with various stakeholders, which may not suit highly independent individuals.
A week in the life
A representative working week for a Merchandise Planner — where the deep work, meetings, and admin actually land.
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