Merchandise Planning Analyst

This is a fully remote position, open to applicants in Philippines.

📋 Description

• Assist in selecting product ranges with suppliers through analysis of sales, stock, and performance.

• Evaluate customer demand, category performance, and assortment to pinpoint range gaps and opportunities.

• Develop new SKUs and ensure the accuracy of product and SKU master data.

• Assess aged, slow-moving, and underperforming stock, recommending actions to enhance stock turnover.

• Aid in the management and upkeep of the Open to Buy (OTB) process.

• Track inventory investment against budgets and identify risks or variances.

• Maintain forward sales and inventory forecasts by analyzing historical performance, seasonality, promotions, and trading plans.

• Calculate forward and bulk order needs to ensure availability while managing inventory risks.

• Assist in planning for trading periods, promotions, launches, and supplier opportunities.

• Analyze sales, stock cover, sell-through, and stock turnover to uncover replenishment and inventory opportunities.

• Support minimum stock levels, inventory settings, space planning, and assortment planning across various stores and channels.

• Recommend inventory needs by SKU, category, and location.

• Process supplier cost price adjustments and evaluate their commercial and margin implications.

• Monitor Was/Now and promotional pricing for compliance with Australian Consumer Law and company standards.

• Compile and distribute weekly merchandise and planning reports every Monday.

• Maintain reporting on sales, stock, margin, aged inventory, and planning KPIs.

• Highlight risks, opportunities, and exceptions that require action.

• Provide ad hoc analysis and continuously enhance reporting processes.

• Collaborate with teams across Merchandise, Supply Chain, Technology, Finance, Ecommerce, Store, and Supplier departments.

• Deliver accurate data, disciplined inventory planning, and timely commercial insights to support profitable sales and informed decision-making.

⛳️ Requirements

• Candidates must be based in the Philippines.

• Prior experience in merchandise planning, allocation, buying administration, or a comparable retail analytical role.

• Experience in retail, ecommerce, or consumer products is preferred.

• Familiarity with Shopify is highly regarded.

• Strong numerical and analytical skills are essential.

• Intermediate to advanced proficiency in Excel is required.

• Understanding of retail sales, stock, margin, sell-through, and stock turnover metrics.

• Exposure to Open to Buy (OTB), forecasting, or inventory planning is highly valued.

• Strong attention to detail and a commitment to data accuracy.

• Ability to interpret data and convert analysis into actionable recommendations.

• Excellent organizational skills with the ability to manage recurring deadlines.

• Capable of collaborating across multiple business functions.

• Ability to work independently, take ownership, and make sound judgments with minimal guidance.

• Initiative and a willingness to identify areas for process improvement.

• Dependable and diligent while working remotely, demonstrating strong follow-through and accountability.

• Proactive communication skills and the ability to build rapport within a cohesive team.

• Comfortable utilizing AI tools to enhance efficiency, productivity, and work quality.

• Availability for meetings and collaboration during core AEST or PHT business hours.

• Disclosure of any existing ongoing roles or client commitments.

• Engagement on LinkedIn should reflect the status as “Independent Contractor” if not employed via EOR.

🏝️ Benefits

• Fully remote work from the comfort of your home.

• Flexible schedule management as an independent contractor.

• Opportunities for occasional collaboration during Australian business hours.

• Engagement may be arranged through an Employer of Record (EOR).