Merchandise Planner – Grocery

Job Description

Are you aiming to secure a high-impact Merchandise Planner role in Johannesburg? Hire Group is actively sourcing exceptional talent for one of South Africa’s foremost grocery retailers. In this fast-paced position, you will ensure accurate forecasting, inventory optimisation, and precise alignment with sales objectives within a high-demand retail environment.

About the Role

As a Merchandise Planner in the dynamic grocery sector, you will be the analytical engine driving inventory performance. You will partner closely with commercial buyers to ensure that essential consumer goods are available in the right quantities across a vast store network. Our client relies on your ability to interpret complex data, anticipate market shifts, and execute planning strategies that safeguard margins and prevent out-of-stock scenarios.

Key Responsibilities

• Develop robust demand forecasts and inventory plans for fast-moving grocery categories.
• Manage the end-to-end allocation and replenishment process to ensure optimal stock levels.
• Analyse historical sales, promotional impact, and seasonal trends to refine purchasing strategies.
• Collaborate with the buying team to establish financially viable operational parameters.
• Monitor daily and weekly sales performance against budget, taking corrective action where necessary.
• Implement strategies to reduce wastage, manage shrinkage, and improve overall stock health.
• Work cross-functionally with supply chain and logistics to ensure seamless product flow.
• Conduct scenario planning to mitigate risks associated with supply chain disruptions.
• Provide detailed analytical reports on category performance to senior commercial leadership.
• Drive continuous improvement in planning processes and system utilisation.

Minimum Requirements

• Tertiary qualification in Supply Chain, Finance, Mathematics, or Commerce.
• Minimum of 3 to 5 years of merchandise planning or demand forecasting experience, preferably in grocery or FMCG.
• Proven expertise in managing high-turnover inventory within a complex retail network.
• Advanced proficiency in data analysis software and established retail planning systems.
• Strong understanding of the fast-moving consumer goods landscape in South Africa.

Skills & Competencies

• Highly analytical mindset with an exceptional aptitude for numerical reasoning.
• Ability to thrive under pressure in a high-demand, rapid-turnaround environment.
• Strong commercial acumen and the ability to balance risk with opportunity.
• Excellent communication skills for effective cross-departmental collaboration.
• Detail-oriented approach with a commitment to accuracy and operational excellence.

What We Offer

• Competitive remuneration package ranging from R45,000 to R52,000 per month.
• The opportunity to play a critical role in the success of a major national grocery retailer.
• A stable, fast-paced, and highly rewarding corporate environment.
• Excellent avenues for ongoing professional development and career progression.

Maximise your analytical potential in a resilient sector. Apply for this Merchandise Planner vacancy via apply@hiregroup.net and drive the commercial success of a top-tier grocery brand.