Merchandise Planner

Join our dynamic team as a Merchandise Planner and play a pivotal role in shaping our future through insightful forecasting and strategic planning

• Leverage your analytical expertise to optimise inventory, drive sales, and ensure our shelves are stocked with the right products at the right time.
• Gain hands on experience, professional development, and the chance to make a real impact in a growing, globally recognised brand.
• Thrive in a high-energy role, collaborating with cross-functional teams and adapting to market trends to keep our offerings fresh and exciting for customers.

About WHSmith Australia

WHSmith is a historic British retailer focusing on news, books, and convenience, and we are proud to bring our expertise to our Australian operations. Our stores are located in some of the busiest and most exciting airports in the country, providing a dynamic and fast-paced work environment that is perfect for driven individuals who thrive on a challenge.

About the Position

The Merchandise Planner will be responsible for delivering budget/stock efficiency, optimising quality of stock, whilst improving in store availability and driving sales. This role will develop stock and ranging processes in conjunction with the Commercial and Finance teams. 

Your responsibilities will include:

• Set and deliver cost, quality, and availability of stock targets 
• Deliver KPIs through leadership and coaching of direct reports and challenging key business stakeholders  
• Establish monthly budgets and replans (in consultation with the buying team) for sales, stock, stock turns, margins, purchases, and gross profit 
• Drive assortment optimisation through effective space and range management 
• Provide financial analysis, support and advice to the buyers on ranging, budgeting, and forecasting activities, to ensure financial targets are met 
• Manage problem stock and ensure exit strategies are identified and implemented 
• Ensure stock spend is controlled within agreed targets 
• Lead effective delivery of range changes and control ranges within agreed parameters 
• Create and develop stock management processes 

• Establish processes for seasonal sales forecasting and range cascade documentation 
• Plan and execute seasonal and promotional stock pushes and manage exit from the same

Candidate Profile

• Minimum of 3 years' experience in a planner role (ideally within an FMCG environment)   
• Proven experience developing effective processes 
• Experience in a Retail environment 
• Advanced Excel skills  
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills  
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills  
• Demonstrated experience in coaching and developing people  
• Experience in space management would be advantageous 
• Ability to use data and personal impact to influence and negotiation 

Our Commitment to Diversity and Inclusion

WHSmith is an equal opportunity employer and considers all applicants for employment. We recognise the importance of equity in all that we do, as well as promoting a culture of inclusion through our policies, procedures and working practices. If you have any support requirements, we encourage you to advise us at the time of your application, so we can assist you appropriately during the recruitment process.

* Please note that only shortlisted candidates will be contacted.