JD is a leading international multichannel retailer of branded sports and casual wear, combining globally recognised brands such as Nike, adidas, New Balance and The North Face, with strong private labels such as Pink Soda and Supply & Demand, to provide an elevated consumer experience.

JD Sports is the exclusive retail partner to TFG and will further bolster TFG’s existing positioning as the destination of choice for athletic and leisure sports apparel.

Key Responsibilities:

Drive product efficiencies and key measures – sales, markdown, inventory, sales margin      Developing category strategic, tactical, and operational plans to achieve set targets Management of range assortment at store level in conjunction with the buyer  Replenishment of key lines Manage OTB allowance both in-season and forward budgets Attend all appointments relating to product launches and selection throughout the year as specified Analysis and review of previous week sales with the buying team and propose and drive actions for the week   Preparation and presentation of performance in trade meetings Reporting on performance, initiatives and operational plans to management periodically (weekly, monthly, seasonally, and annually) Team player and be able to foster collaboration across buying, planning, marketing, VM and operations functions. Be influential in the implementing of change to achieve company goals/objectives Drive allocation and grading strategy with allocator Delivery management Markdown proposal and action Regular store visits as a team

Qualifications and Experience:

Diploma, Graduate Degree, or Post Graduate Degree   At least 5 years of proven working experience as a Planner (sports/branded goods advantageous) Sound understanding of the retail cycle and planning process   A good working knowledge of the current computer software packages including Microsoft office    A high degree of numeracy and an analytical, detailed, and strategic approach to work

Skills: 

Strong business acumen and merchant thinking Excellent planning, organisational and interpersonal skills  Proven decision-making ability A high degree of numeracy and an analytical, detailed, and strategic approach to work Excellent time management skills   Good communication skills  Good judgement and problem-solving skills Negotiation Skills

Behaviours: 

Establishes and nurtures internal and external relationships to create robust, and mutually beneficial, partnerships Effectively works with others to achieve shared goals Understands, anticipates, and meets the needs and expectations of customers Takes accountability and ensures others are held to account on agreed upon performance targets Effectively influences others by gaining support and commitment in the delivery of organisational goals and objectives Develops plans and prioritises initiatives that align to the organisational goals and objectives

Preference will be given, but not limited to candidates from designated groups in terms of the Employment Equity Act.

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