Supply Chain Merchandise Planner

Halfords

Aug 6

Applications are closed

Job
Full-time
Mid & Senior Level

Requirements

Proven track record of high performance in a retail supply chain role.
Strongly commercial and numerate with a data and process driven approach.
Excellent analytical & problem-solving skills.
SAP / BW experience. Power BI an advantage.
Strong excel and data handling skills.
Strong verbal and written communication skills.
Customer obsessed.
A team player with strong collaboration.
Experience of good cross – functional working.
Demonstrate a high degree of tenacity and drive & an ability to thrive in a fast – paced and pressurised environment.
Strong negotiation skills.

Responsibilities

To own the sales volume forecast for specific planning groups under their control, taking input from trading teams and suppliers for new ranges, promotions and seasons.
To own and manage intake plans for specific planning groups within each category in line with budget expectations.
To influence sales & margin forecast with buyers.
To influence commercial decisions made with buyers and our space planning team.
To manage inventory to agreed stock budgets and within OTB and to agreed availability and stockturn KPI’s.
To develop and manage assistant merchandisers to ensure high performing teams.
To influence and work with the logistics team to manage end-to-end product stock flow.
To manage supplier relationships and performance.
To ensure strong communication with retail operations.
Support and influence (with trading team / buyer) company sales & margin budget / forecast for specific planning groups.
Forecast all sales volume taking inputs from trading teams for promotions, new ranges and seasonality.
Forecast and manage stock intake plans to deliver sales.
To hold regular consensus meetings with buyers and external suppliers to review and update sales and intake plans.
Influence range improvements as part of the range review process.
To manage all aspects of merchandising KPI’s (DC and store availability / stock investment / Forecast accuracy / stock turn / GMROI / DC capacity).
Recommend and manage product group OTB.
Ensure range reviews are landed in store, on time and to plan.
Work to ensure clean exits of promotional product.
Work to ensure obsolete and redundant stock targets are met.
Manage regular supplier communications with regular meetings and forecasts.
Help drive multichannel improvements across specific planning groups.
Self-development.

FAQs

What are the primary responsibilities of a Supply Chain Merchandise Planner at Halfords?

The primary responsibilities include owning the sales volume forecast, managing intake plans, influencing sales and margin forecasts, managing inventory to stock budgets, and maintaining supplier relationships.

What skills are essential for success in this role?

Essential skills include strong analytical and problem-solving skills, excellent communication skills, proficiency in SAP/BW and Power BI, strong Excel capabilities, and the ability to collaborate across functions.

Is experience in retail supply chain necessary for this position?

Yes, a proven track record of high performance in a retail supply chain role is required.

How does the Supply Chain Merchandise Planner influence commercial decisions?

The planner influences commercial decisions by collaborating with buyers, advising on sales and margin forecasts, and managing space planning to optimize product placement.

What tools and software are used in this position?

The position requires experience with SAP, BW, and Power BI. Strong skills in Excel and data handling are also necessary.

Are teamwork and collaboration important in this role?

Yes, being a team player and having strong collaboration skills are important for working effectively across functions within the company.

What is the role of the Supply Chain Merchandise Planner in inventory management?

The role involves managing inventory to agreed stock budgets, ensuring availability and stockturn KPIs are met, and driving multichannel improvements.

How often do planners communicate with suppliers?

Planners manage regular communications with suppliers, including holding meetings and discussing forecasts.

What type of environment can planners expect to work in?

Planners can expect to work in a fast-paced and pressurized environment that requires a high degree of tenacity and drive.

Is self-development encouraged in this role?

Yes, self-development is encouraged as part of the key responsibilities of the position.

Halfords

Retail & Consumer Goods

Industry

10,001+

Employees

1892

Founded Year

Mission & Purpose

Halfords is a leading provider of automotive and cycling products, services, and expertise, boasting a rich heritage spanning over 125 years. With an extensive range of high-quality motoring and cycling products, combined with unparalleled knowledge and exceptional customer service, Halfords strives to enhance every journey, regardless of its nature or length. With a vast network of 460 conveniently located shops throughout the UK and Republic of Ireland, their team of over 12,000 knowledgeable experts is always ready to offer guidance and assistance. With 2,000 skilled technicians servicing over 1 million vehicles annually, and 300 garages equipped with state-of-the-art facilities providing dealership-quality MOT, repair, and servicing at affordable prices, Halfords ensures a seamless and reliable experience. Recognised as one of the Sunday Times 30 Best Big Companies to Work For, Halfords fosters a culture that empowers employees to thrive and grow.