Merchandise Planner

Ralph Lauren Corporation; London; On-site; GBP 40,000 - 55,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading global lifestyle brand is seeking a Merchandise Planner for a 12-month Fixed Term Contract. The candidate will manage inventory, influence buying strategies and drive performance against KPIs. Responsibilities include overseeing the OTB process and developing team talent. Strong analytical skills and expertise in planning tools are essential. This role fosters a collaborative and inclusive work environment.

Qualifications

• Demonstrated leadership in inventory management and risk assessment.
• Experience in effectively communicating strategies and insights to stakeholders.
• Proficient in utilizing planning and forecasting tools.

Responsibilities

• Lead department trade and manage inventory for optimal availability.
• Influence buying strategies and oversee seasonal markdowns.
• Develop talent within the team and foster team wellness.

Skills

Strong analytical skills with experience in planning and forecasting tools

Effective communicator

Autonomous, results-oriented

Solution-focused with an entrepreneurial mindset

Expertise in Microsoft Excel and BI reporting tools

Excellent organizational and time management skills

Job description

Ralph Lauren Corporation (NYSE:RL) is a global leader in the design, marketing, and distribution of premium lifestyle products in five categories: apparel, accessories, home, fragrances, and hospitality. For more than 50 years, Ralph Lauren's reputation and distinctive image have been consistently developed across an expanding number of products, brands, and international markets. The company's brand names include Ralph Lauren, Ralph Lauren Collection, Ralph Lauren Purple Label, Polo Ralph Lauren, Double RL, Lauren Ralph Lauren, Polo Ralph Lauren Children, Chaps, among others, making it one of the world's most widely recognized families of consumer brands.

At Ralph Lauren, we unite and inspire the communities within our company as well as those we serve by amplifying voices and perspectives to create a culture of belonging, inclusion, and fairness for all. We foster this culture through Talent, Education & Communication, Employee Groups, and Celebration.

Position Overview

We are recruiting for a Merchandise Planner on a 12-month Fixed Term Contract.

The role involves leading department trade, taking necessary actions, and demonstrating awareness of the impact on the topline business. The planner will drive channel performance and availability, optimize line card processes, and communicate impacts to department KPIs to key stakeholders. They will be accountable for WSSI management, understanding brand positioning, and supporting the formulation of long-term category forecasts.

The candidate will oversee inventory management, critically assess risks and opportunities against stock targets and turnover, and influence stakeholders to implement solutions. They will lead the OTB process, influence buying strategies, oversee seasonal markdowns, and utilize market analysis to shape future strategies. Regular store visits and competitor reviews are also part of the responsibilities.

Leadership & Team

The role requires defining and articulating team expectations, coaching and training team members, and regularly reviewing progress. The candidate should foster team wellness, delegate tasks clearly, provide candid feedback, and develop talent within the team. Addressing underperformance and building shared ownership are also key.

Communications & Partnerships

The planner will create and maintain strong relationships with stakeholders, align strategies with business goals, manage cross-functional projects, and optimize processes and efficiency.

Experience, Skills & Knowledge

• Strong analytical skills with experience in planning and forecasting tools
• Effective communicator capable of conveying messages clearly to diverse audiences
• Autonomous, results-oriented, with innovative thinking
• Logical analysis and problem-solving abilities
• Solution-focused with an entrepreneurial mindset
• Excellent organizational and time management skills
• Confident in challenging opinions respectfully
• Self-aware and receptive to feedback
• Ability to build and maintain productive relationships
• Expertise in Microsoft Excel and BI reporting tools
• Resilient and positive during challenges
• Recognizes and praises good work regularly
• Leads by example and mentors junior team members
• Passionate about having fun at work and appreciating products