Find out everything you need to know about becoming a Merchandise Planner.

Job Title – Merchandise Planner

Description

A Merchandise Planner plans and forecasts for future merchandise buys based on historical buys, reoccurring buys and current inventory levels.

Typical Job Activities

Responsible for reviewing stock to sales ratios, responding to changing sales trends, and ensuring plan sales, plan mark-ups, and plan markdowns are achieved by departments
Familiar with standard concepts, practices, and procedures within a particular field
Posts seasonal analysis, strategic planning, range and assortment planning
Budgets and forecasts in order to achieve all KVIs plan and maximize profitability in Replenishment type product as well as Fashion
Stock controls and distributions whereby you ensure that the product assortments, volumes and store & product attributes are maximized
Liaises effectively with stores, suppliers, customers, shipping and marketing

Does this sound like a career for you? Browse jobs in the marketing and media industry here.

Related Occupations

Dealer
Marketing manager
Market researcher
Personnel manager
Purchasing manager
Salesperson

Educational Requirements

Senior Certificate with matric exemption for a degree course in related fields
Senior Certificate for a diploma course in related fields

Compulsory subjects: Mathematics
Recommended subjects: Economics, Business Economics and Accounting

Required Skills

Planning: 3 to 4 years
Merchandise Planner: 3 to 4 years
Retail Planning: 3 to 4 years
Clothing and Apparel: 3 to 4 years
Product Planner: 3 to 4 years

What natural skills and/or aptitudes do I need for this occupation?

Be alert, with the ability to recognise and make use of favourable conditions
Be able to negotiate in a tactful, though decisive manner
Not be overly compliant or easily confused
Have an interest in merchandising
Have leadership ability
Present an attractive, well-groomed appearance

Learn new marketing skills in just a few weeks with Udemy.

Employment Opportunities

Moderate

Market Competitiveness

High

Income Potential

Moderate

Self-Employment Opportunities

Moderate

International Employment Opportunities

Moderate

Possible Employers

Department stores
Retail firms
Own retail business

Browse companies hiring now.

Relevant Contact Details

Chartered Institute of Purchasing and Supply
https://www.purcosa.co.za/

Career Progress and Path

Experience in specific field
Work performance

Possible Career Paths

Specialist career in the specific field

Employment Stability

Moderately stable

Reasons to consider this career

The need is determined by the consumer
The need is determined by private companies
I am very interested in a specific subject or field
I can start a business in this field or with