Associate Planner - Contract Based

Job Overview - The Associate Planner will support the delivery of the merchandise planning strategy for an assigned category or brand. Through accurate forecasting, sales planning, inventory analysis, and in-season performance reporting, the role helps achieve sales, margin, and stock targets. Working closely with the Planner and cross-functional teams, the successful candidate will turn complex data into clear commercial insights and support disciplined, data-driven planning decisions. What You’ll Be Doing - • Supporting the development of annual and seasonal sales budgets and forecasts through the analysis of historical performance, market trends, and customer demand • Preparing sales, margin, and stock analysis to support merchandise planning and trading decisions • Identifying size-profile, localisation, and growth opportunities through data analysis and regular performance reviews • Analysing assortment performance and inventory flow to highlight emerging trends, risks, and commercial opportunities • Supporting the development of channel-level assortment plans in line with budgeted receipt and stock targets • Preparing SKU- and class-level plans and sharing data-driven recommendations with Buying teams for review and validation • Contributing insights to assortment optimisation and localisation initiatives based on customer behaviour and regional performance • Monitoring in-season sales, stock, and margin performance across categories and channels • Preparing weekly and monthly performance reports that clearly communicate opportunities, risks, and recommended actions • Supporting allocation and replenishment activities by analysing demand, stock levels, and trading performance • Recommending markdown, reallocation, and replenishment actions in line with agreed financial targets • Collaborating with Buying, Commercial, Digital, Finance, Supply Chain, Warehouse, and other teams to support effective planning execution • Providing analytical input to support cross-functional decisions and trade discussions • Preparing analysis and commercial insights for brand and supplier performance reviews • Taking ownership of assigned deliverables while contributing positively to the wider Planning team What We’re Looking For - • Bachelor’s degree in Business, Finance, Supply Chain, or another relevant field • 2–3 years of merchandise planning experience within a multi-channel retail or e-commerce organisation • Strong numerical and analytical capability, with the ability to interpret complex reports and quantitative information • Good financial modelling and analysis skills • Advanced knowledge of Microsoft Excel and strong proficiency across Microsoft Office • Experience using financial analysis and merchandise planning tools • A commercial mindset and a practical, solutions-focused approach to problem-solving • Good understanding of retail, relevant products, and market dynamics • The ability to build productive cross-functional relationships and work collaboratively to deliver business results • Strong stakeholder management, communication, and presentation skills • The confidence to negotiate and influence effectively • Strong attention to detail, organisation, and prioritisation skills • A proactive approach, with a willingness to learn and take ownership of results • Proficiency in English What We Offer - • Dynamic and collaborative workplace culture. • Opportunities for professional development and career growth. • Competitive salary and comprehensive employee benefits. • Employee discounts and access to exclusive product promotions. Ready to turn insights into commercial impact and help shape the Ounass assortment? Apply now!