DFS is seeking a seasoned Planning Manager to look after our merchandise plans by recognizing changing business trends. You will quantify the department merchandise strategy by setting department seasonal plans and the Brand/Class location sales plans. You will be empowered to forecast order and plan product allocation to stores. You will assist the Planning Director to maximize inventory productivity, sales and gross margin while executing the department strategy.
Financial Planning
- Deliver category sales, gross margin and turnover performance to plan
- Identify and evaluates sales and gross margin opportunities at the department level
- Work closely with Director of Planning, Merchandise Manager (MM), Product Sales Manager (PSM) and Distributor partners to develop and manage financial plans
Merchandise Strategy & Inventory Management
- Develop department’s seasonal merchandise plans at the division and group level
- Ensure accurate and timely completion of monthly department Open-To-Buy (OTB) at the division and group level
- Provide ongoing feedback and information to team members on sales results, competitive practices, delivery issues with vendors, and other specific information which could impact the performance of the business
- Monitor and forecast inventory levels at the division and location level; manage logistics and delivery costs
- Establish and maintain assortment plan pipeline by determining order quantities and placing orders with suppliers
- Buy merchandise for the divisions based on model stock and trends to achieve optimal sales, profit and inventory performance
People Development
- Identify, recruit, and develop the Planning Team
- Encourage and support the development of our talented people; offer honest and constructive feedback to direct reports and business partners, foster individual and group development
Key Requirements
- Bachelor’s Degree or above preferred
- Minimum of 5 years’ experience in the buying and/or planning function, with a financial and analytical merchandising background; people management experience required
- Previous luxury market and international business experience preferred
- Solid negotiation skills for business negotiations
- Internationally mobile for career advancement opportunities; likely to be relocated to Hong Kong or other major Asia-Pacific cities
- Able to travel up to 12 weeks per year
- Fluent in both spoken and written English
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.
