Duration: ?Initial 3-4 months, with potential extension for an additional 6-12 months Commitment: ?4-5 days per week About the Project: ?We are a leading management consultancy embarking on an Inventory Planning Optimization project for a major European retailer.
This project aims to enhance the retailer's merchandise planning processes, ensuring optimal inventory levels, improved demand forecasting, and efficient in-season trading.
Role Description: ?We are seeking a highly experienced Subject Matter Expert in Merchandise Planning to join our consulting team.
The ideal candidate will have 10-15 years of experience in senior roles across key merchandise planning activities with major retailers, preferably within the fashion, sports or lifestyle industry.
This role requires a deep understanding of merchandise financial planning, range & assortment planning, demand forecasting, and in-season trading.
Key Responsibilities: Lead baseline analysis of inventory levels across supply chain Evaluate inventory management processes across all key merchandise planning activities across all key functions Provide industry benchmarks & insights to current stock strategy Identify potential levers for stock reduction & optimization strategy, e.g.
: process improvements, markdown, tools adoption, training, etc.
Advise on advanced demand forecasting techniques to optimize inventory levels.
Assess in-season trading strategies to maximize sales and minimize markdowns Define target inventory levels and mix across the supply chain Support ROI Financial evaluation & benefits estimation of recommendations Collaborate with the consulting team and client stakeholders to deliver project objectives.
Communicate effectively with stakeholders at all levels.
Qualifications: 10-15 years of experience in merchandise planning with major retailers (EU, UK, US), preferably in fashion.
Strong expertise in range and assortment planning, merchandise financial planning, demand forecasting, and in-season trading.
Consulting experience is preferred but not essential.
Highly data-driven and analytical mindset.
Excellent communication and stakeholder management skills.
In-depth knowledge of industry best practices for merchandise planning processes.
Candidate who are immediate available would be highly appreciated.