Job Title : Planning and Buying Head

Location : Head Office, Noida

Department : Merchandising

Reports to : Chief Operating Officer (COO)

Job Summary :

- The Planning and Buying Head for Apparel Retail is responsible for leading the merchandise planning, procurement, and inventory management functions. This role involves driving the product assortment strategy, forecasting demand, optimizing inventory levels, and ensuring the right product mix to meet customer needs and business goals. The ideal candidate will have a strong background in apparel retail, exceptional analytical skills, and a keen eye for trends and consumer behavior.

Key Responsibilities:

1. Strategic Planning:

- Develop and execute the merchandise strategy aligned with the company's overall business objectives.

- Conduct market research and trend analysis to inform product assortment decisions.

- Collaborate with senior management to set sales, margin, and inventory turnover targets.

2. Buying & Assortment Planning:

- Lead the buying process, from vendor selection to product procurement, ensuring a competitive and profitable assortment.

- Negotiate terms, prices, and delivery schedules with suppliers to optimize cost and quality.

- Oversee the development of seasonal buying plans based on consumer insights, market trends, and sales forecasts.

3. Inventory Management:

- Developing strategic planning with Retail Merchandising team for sell thru and optimisation

- Monitor and manage inventory levels across all stores and channels to minimize stockouts and overstock situations.

- Implement effective replenishment strategies to ensure optimisation with Merchandising team.

- Analyze inventory performance and take corrective actions as needed.

4. Team Leadership & Development:

- Lead, mentor, and develop a team of planners and buyers, fostering a high performance culture.

- Set clear goals and expectations, providing regular feedback and performance evaluations.

- Promote collaboration across departments, including marketing, sales, and operations.

5. Financial Management:

- Manage the merchandise budget, ensuring alignment with financial goals.

- Monitor key performance indicators (KPIs) such as sales, margins, stock turns, and sell-through rates.

- Identify and mitigate financial risks related to merchandise planning and buying.

6. Process Improvement:

- Continuously evaluate and improve planning and buying processes to enhance efficiency and effectiveness.

- Implement best practices and tools for merchandise planning and inventory management.

- Stay updated on industry trends and technologies to drive innovation within the department.

Qualifications:

- Education: Bachelor's degree in business, Fashion Merchandising, or a related field. A master's degree or MBA is preferred.

- Experience: Minimum of 5 years of experience in merchandise planning, buying, and inventory management, with at least 5 years in a leadership role within Retail Industry.

Skills:

- Strong analytical and problem-solving abilities.

- Excellent negotiation and vendor management skills.

- Proficiency in merchandise planning software and ERP systems.

- Strong leadership and team management capabilities.

- In-depth knowledge of fashion trends and consumer behavior.

- Strategic thinker with a proactive approach.

- High level of integrity and professionalism.

- Ability to work in a fast-paced, dynamic environment.

- Strong attention to detail and a commitment to excellence.