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Head of Merchandise and Stock Planning

Ref: 572793

East Midlands, UK

£82,000

  • Permanent
  • Strategic Sales Growth
  • Inventory Management Expert
  • Team Leadership

About the candidate

A dynamic and customer-focused professional with nearly 20 years of experience in retail merchandising brings a wealth of knowledge in omni-channel range optimisation, effective stock management, and collaborative working. Demonstrating a successful track record at major UK retailers, the candidate is an expert in driving sustainable, profitable sales growth across various product categories.

Moving up swiftly through significant roles in merchandise and stock planning, including a prominent position in furniture merchandising at a leading UK homeware retailer, the candidate has spearheaded projects that have significantly improved sales, inventory control, and team performance. With a passion for developing high-performing teams and a cool head under pressure, this leader excels in strategic planning and problem-solving.

Notable achievements include boosting category sales by over £51 million in two years and leading a SKU reduction project that maintained sales numbers while reducing inventory complexity.

What makes them great?

  • Achieved a £51 million increase in furniture category sales year-over-year, alongside a net margin improvement of 2.6%.
  • Successfully reduced stock keeping units by 25% without impacting sales, thereby streamlining operations and enhancing profitability.
  • Implemented a new stock operating model that increased availability by 7% and reduced inventory costs by £6 million.
  • Excellent leader with a proven track record of developing skills within teams and improving department strategies.

Areas of expertise

  • Strategic planning and oversight across multiple merchandising categories
  • Data-driven decision making using advanced analytics tools
  • Comprehensive inventory management and efficiency improvements
  • Leadership in high-stakes negotiation and supplier management
  • Development and implementation of omni-channel trading strategies