A new and exciting opportunity has become available in Old Khaki for a resilient, efficient and influential Planning Manager . The successful candidate would add strategic value to our business by being responsible for the delivery and management of the Fashion Department’s merchandise and location plans. A significant contribution to enable the business to achieve its long-term strategic objectives and profitability indicators would be a key focus.

Our ideal candidate will have the ability to align with the company vision, be self-motivated and actively involved in overseeing the end to end process in the applicable area of responsibility. In addition, the successful candidate should have strong leadership skills with high energy levels required for this fast-paced and dynamic retail environment.

Key Duties and Responsibilities:

• Deliver the required seasonal strategic plans and forecasts

• Lead and manage the Planning Team to drive optimal performance and growth

• Ensure the consistent execution of seasonal strategic plans meet the department and business KPIs
• Ensure that agreed merchandise objectives are met through the effective management of departmental information, actions and deviations from the plans
• Manage departmental expenses according to the approved budget
• Build and maintain influential cross-functional partnerships with all key business partners and stakeholders
• Optimize the department’s performance and the achievement of required outcomes through effective people management, sales management, reporting and analysis

Knowledge, Experience & Qualifications Required

• A Relevant tertiary qualification is required
• Minimum 3 years retail merchandise planning experience is essential
• Previous experience in managing a merchandise planning team is highly advantageous
• Candidates with Experience working in a fashion clothing retail environment will be given preference
• Working knowledge of the retail cycle and merchandise planning principles and processes
• Sound experience working with retail merchandise planning systems (PLM, Oracle)
• Excel proficiency is required at an advanced level

Job Related Competencies

• Proven strategic, logical and analytical thinking skills
• Ability to make sound decisions together with effective problem-solving skills
• Excellent numerical skills
• Strong trader mentality
• Ability to manage and lead the job functions and team
• Able to build and maintain influential relationships at various levels and across business functions
• Effective communication and presentation skills
• Solid organizing, planning, & time management skills
• High-level of conflict management and negotiation skills
• The agility and resilience to maintain high levels of drive and initiative under pressure

Please note:  The Cape Union Mart Group is committed to transformation.  Appointments and promotions will be made based on candidates who best meet the requirements for the position. Candidates that enhance the diversity of the team will be given preference, in line with our Employment Equity plan.