Position: Planner II – Beauty Department at Woolworths

Listing Reference: woolw_000989
Location: Woolworths – Wholesale & Retail Trade
Category: FMCG, Retail, Wholesale, and Supply Chain
Contract Type: Permanent

About the Opportunity

Do you have a keen interest in retail planning, especially within the beauty sector? Woolworths is searching for a detail-oriented and data-driven Planner II to join our vibrant beauty department. As a Planner II, you’ll be at the forefront of developing and executing integrated planning strategies, working closely with a passionate team to shape the future of Woolworths’ beauty merchandise. If you’re enthusiastic about bringing fresh perspectives to retail, have a knack for numbers, and enjoy making data-informed decisions, this role could be a great fit for you!

At Woolworths, we don’t just seek employees; we aim to cultivate future leaders and industry innovators. Our Planner II role within the beauty division is designed for individuals who thrive in collaborative environments, where insights and creativity can drive measurable success. You’ll gain hands-on experience in strategy development, merchandise planning, and customer analytics, contributing directly to our commitment to delivering top-quality products and experiences to our customers.

What You’ll Be Doing: Core Responsibilities

As a Planner II, you’ll be working side-by-side with our Senior Planner and a dedicated team to create and implement effective merchandise and store strategies that align with Woolworths’ goals. Below are the primary areas of responsibility:

Develop and Execute Merchandise Financial Plans

Collaborative Planning: Support the development and execution of store and merchandise financial plans to meet department objectives, with alignment to the overall group strategy. Seasonal Strategy Input: Assist in creating seasonal strategies that incorporate Woolworths’ broader initiatives, operational metrics, and valuable post-season analysis.

Data Analysis: Dive into historical sales data by product, store, market trends, and customer preferences to generate insights that inform the Merchandise Financial Plan (MFP). Cross-Functional Communication: Work closely with cross-functional teams to align the department strategy with Woolworths’ overarching vision, ensuring all strategies are data-informed and customer-centric.

Execute Assortment Planning with Precision

Assortment Planning: Collaborate with the Planner, Senior Planner, and Buyer to design accurate and effective planograms and catalogues tailored for each store location. Stock Level Optimization: Ensure that all minimum presentation standards for products are met according to store type and brand, balancing customer preferences with available space. Store-Specific Adjustments: Conduct in-depth store analysis to find range optimization opportunities, ensuring that product assortments are well-aligned with local customer insights. Continuous Improvement: Stay proactive in looking for range optimization opportunities that enhance both the shopping experience and inventory efficiency.

Leverage Customer Insights and Analytics

New Product Allocations: Oversee the allocation process for new product launches and new store openings, ensuring timely, accurate distribution that aligns with customer demand. Automated Allocation Monitoring: Review weekly allocation reports, ensuring the accuracy of auto-allocations across all stores to maintain optimal stock levels. Pre-Season Engagement: Collaborate with Central Planning Analysts to review and refine pre-season analytics (APS, Profiles, and Sales Profiler) for a more targeted approach. Customer Feedback Analysis: Analyze store sales data, customer feedback, and market trends, helping the team make data-driven decisions that better inform future product demand.

4. Planning Administration and Collaborative Leadership

Data Management: Maintain accurate and up-to-date data within Woolworths’ planning systems, following the beauty department’s merchandise cycle requirements. Trade Meetings: Actively participate in weekly trade meetings to discuss business performance, sharing key insights and determining actionable next steps.

Competitive Insights: Engage in competitive shopping and store visits with your team, sharing relevant findings and insights to inform future planning and strategy. Company Initiatives: Get involved in company-wide initiatives, contributing your insights and support where appropriate to drive Woolworths’ success.

Who We’re Looking For: Skills and Qualifications

We are seeking a candidate with a passion for retail planning, excellent analytical skills, and a thorough understanding of the beauty industry. Here’s what we’re looking for:

Educational Background: Relevant business diploma or degree (e.g., Retail Business Management, BCom, Clothing Management) or equivalent relevant work experience. Experience: Minimum of 1 years in the retail industry.

Technical Proficiency:

Excel: Intermediate level in Excel, with experience in managing and analyzing large datasets. Retail Systems: Familiarity with retail planning and merchandising software such as Assort, PLM, or Blue Yonder (JDA). Retail Math: Proficiency in retail-related calculations and financial metrics. Retail Knowledge: Broad understanding of retail, supply chain, and logistics processes. Numerical Aptitude: Strong attention to detail and the ability to handle complex calculations.

Ideal Attributes for Success

To excel in this role, you’ll need a mix of analytical, strategic, and interpersonal skills. Woolworths values individuals who can think creatively, solve problems effectively, and bring a positive, can-do attitude to the team. Here are a few key attributes we’re looking for:

Analytical Insight: Ability to interpret data and derive actionable insights to improve product and inventory planning. Collaborative Spirit: Work effectively within teams, contributing ideas and solutions to foster a collaborative and positive work environment.

Customer Focus: A strong commitment to understanding and meeting customer needs. Adaptability and Initiative: Comfortable in a fast-paced, changing environment and proactive in seeking out new learning opportunities. Quality-Driven: Committed to maintaining high standards in all aspects of planning and strategy.

Benefits of Joining Woolworths

At Woolworths, we offer more than just a job; we provide a platform for growth, development, and impact. By joining us, you’ll have access to:

Professional Growth: Development programs that help you refine your skills and grow within the organization. Supportive Environment: A collaborative and positive workplace where your contributions are valued. Competitive Benefits: A range of benefits that recognize your hard work and dedication to our team.

Ready to Join Our Team?

If you’re ready to contribute your skills and insights to a respected, customer-focused company, we encourage you to apply now and start your journey with Woolworths. We can’t wait to see how your experience, ideas, and dedication can help shape the future of Woolworths’ beauty department!

Woolworths is an equal opportunity employer and welcomes applications from all qualified candidates.