Merchandise Planner

Job Description

Merchandise Planner & Trader - £50–60k + bonus

Premium lifestyle brand is looking for a commercially driven and detail-oriented Merchandise Planner & Trader with a strong analytical mindset. We are seeking a commercially minded planner who understands that inventory is a key driver of cash flow and business performance.

This role is responsible for inventory planning, Open-to-Buy (OTB) management, and ongoing trading performance across the DTC business. You will ensure that the right product is available at the right time, while maintaining control of stock turn, margin, and aged inventory.

Working closely with leadership, finance, operations, and suppliers, you will align inventory investment with demand and manage stock as a critical component of working capital.

This is a hands-on position suited to someone who enjoys actively trading the business week-to-week, using data and commercial judgement to inform decisions.

Key Responsibilities

• Develop and maintain seasonal and monthly merchandise plans
• Manage Open-to-Buy (OTB) and overall inventory investment
• Forecast demand and align intake with trading performance
• Maintain clear visibility of stock levels, intake timing, and commitments
• Lead weekly trading reviews, analysing sales performance, sell-through & stock cover
• Adjust intake, replenishment, and allocation to optimise performance
• Ensure availability of best sellers while mitigating overbuy risk
• Maintain healthy stock turn and optimal inventory levels
• Monitor aged inventory and implement strategies to manage slow-moving stock
• Oversee stock allocation across DTC channels
• Proactively manage risks relating to overstock and stockouts
• Partner with production teams to manage order quantities and delivery timelines in line with OTB and cash flow
• Adjust production commitments based on trading performance
• Ensure supply plans support demand while maintaining disciplined inventory levels
• Collaborate with senior leadership & finance to manage inventory & working capital
• Monitor margin performance and ensure trading decisions support profitability
• Maintain accurate reporting, forecasting, and planning tools

Experience

• 3–6 years’ experience in Merchandise Planning, Inventory Planning, or Retail Trading
• Background in fashion, apparel, or lifestyle retail
• Experience within DTC or omnichannel environments
• Strong analytical capability with advanced Excel skills
• Solid understanding of key metrics including sell-through, stock cover, stock turn, and margin
• Experience managing Open-to-Buy (OTB)
• Ability to translate data into clear, actionable trading decisions
• Highly organised with strong attention to detail
• Comfortable in a fast-paced, entrepreneurial environment

This is working 3 days hybrid (Mon/Tues/Thur), 2 home.