Retail Demand Planner (FMCG)

Retail Demand Planner – Food Category (FMCG)

Our client, a dynamic and fast-growing brand in the retail and food space, is looking for an analytical and solution-oriented Retail Demand Planner to join their team. This role is key in forecasting demand, optimising inventory, and ensuring product availability across all retail channels, with a particular focus on the fresh food category.

The ideal candidate will have strong experience in retail planning and merchandising, excellent numerical skills, and a strategic mindset to drive sales, manage stock effectively, and collaborate across multiple teams.

About our client:

• They are a well-respected organisation that excels in a lively, customer-centric environment, offering a diverse range of high-quality and thoughtfully selected products.
• Celebrated for their commitment to excellence, they work hard to create a shopping experience that blends quality, innovation, and careful attention to detail.
• Nestled in a breathtaking and unique location, this workplace matches the exceptional nature of their offerings. With a strong focus on teamwork, creativity, and ongoing growth, they are dedicated to providing extraordinary service while fostering a culture of collaboration and professional development.

Key Responsibilities

Planning & Forecasting

• Develop accurate demand forecasts for both new and existing products based on historical data, sales trends, and business inputs
• Continuously improve forecast accuracy and reduce bias through data-driven analysis
• Ensure product availability across all locations to meet customer demand
• Contribute to planning strategies aligned with broader operational goals and KPIs

Inventory Management

• Maintain optimal stock levels across stores, warehouses, and online channels
• Coordinate closely with supply chain and warehouse teams to ensure smooth replenishment
• Monitor key indicators such as stock cover, service levels, forecast accuracy, availability, and waste costs
• Identify and manage slow-moving, excess, or obsolete stock
• Plan and adjust inventory levels to support new product launches, promotions, and campaigns

Sales & Performance Analysis

• Analyse performance metrics (sales, margins, availability) to provide actionable insights
• Create monthly reports to track demand planning KPIs: service levels, forecast accuracy, inventory levels, and write-offs
• Participate in business reviews and provide input for continuous improvement

Collaboration

• Work with buyers on product assortment and phasing plans
• Liaise with supply chain and logistics to manage lead times and deliveries
• Partner with store managers to understand on-the-ground demand and regional preferences

• Location: Simondium area.
• Type: Permanent, full time position based on site.
• Salary offered: Market related and dependent on experience

Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree in Business, Finance, Supply Chain, or a related field
• 3–5 years of experience in demand planning, merchandise planning, or inventory control
• Experience in fresh food, FMCG, fashion, or homeware retail is preferred
• Deep understanding of supply chain operations and inventory best practices
• Strong skills in Excel (advanced), ERP systems (e.g., Sage X3), PIM, and forecasting/AI planning tools
• Solid grasp of retail metrics such as sell-through, GMROI, stock turn, and waste percentage
• Exceptional data interpretation and problem-solving skills
• Excellent communication and presentation abilities
• Fluent in Afrikaans and English