Associate Manager, Planning, Food & Gifts (Private Label)

Job Description

We are seeking for an Associate Planning Manager to join our well-established Merchandising team. The role will be report and work closely with Planning Manager to quantify the Merchandise Strategy for the area of responsibility, develop seasonal and brand/class location sales plan, order and allocate products to maximize inventory productivity and gross margin.

Merchandise and Inventory Management

Work closely with Planning Manager, Merchandise Manager, Product Sales Manager and Distributor partners to manage financial plans
Ensure accurate and timely completion of monthly department Open-to-Buy (OTB)
Buy merchandise for the divisions based on model stock and sales trends
Identify slow and best sellers; respond to merchandise performance to maximize sales and minimize risks
Determine markdown strategy and ensure communication/execution with divisions
Develop seasonal plans; Create Brand/Class level sales plans

Private Label Management

Forecast sales demand and prepare inventory at division and location level
Coordinate forecast across divisions and communicate with Vendors for raw material preparation
Formulate raw material print run schedule to attain defined requirements on cost control
Track and analysis performance of new launches and impact on existing product lines; Review and adjust investment for optimized profitability continuously
Provide ongoing feedback and information to team members on sales results, competitive practices, vendor issues, and other specific information pertaining Private Label which could impact business performance

People Development

Encourage and support the development of talents
Offer honest and constructive feedback to direct reports and business partners to foster people development
Focus on self-development to prepare for promotion to Planning Manager

Key Requirements

Bachelor’s Degree or above
Minimum 5 years of experience working experience, with minimum 2 years of experience in financial and analytical merchandising
Knowledge of the packaged food industry and gifts (RTW, Travel, Bath & Body, Wellness, Kids etc.) will be a plus
Previous background from travel retail, international business, FMCG, managing private label will be beneficial
Experienced in coaching and leading a team
Strong organization, time management, communication and negotiation skills
Able to multitask and work independently
Proficient in Excel and other merchandise-related systems
Proficient in both spoken and written English
Travel occasionally when required

DFS is an equal opportunity employer. It is the Company’s policy and practice to employ, promote and treat all employees and applicants on the basis of merit, qualifications and competency and to provide all employees with a workplace that is free of discrimination. Employment decisions are based on qualifications such as education, work experience and talent, and are made without regard to race, color, gender, religion, age, national origin, marital status, sexual orientation, disability or any other basis protected by law.

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