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About Al-Futtaim
Established in the 1930s, Al-Futtaim is one of the most diversified and progressive privately held regional businesses, headquartered in Dubai. Operating across more than 20 countries, the Group spans automotive, financial services, real estate, retail and health. With more than 40,000 employees, Al-Futtaim represents over 200 of the world’s most recognised brands, including Toyota, Lexus, IKEA, ACE and Marks & Spencer. Driven by its purpose to enrich lives and elevate communities, Al-Futtaim focuses on digital innovation, AI, sustainable growth and strategic partnerships, creating long-term value for customers, communities and partners while building a responsible legacy for future generations.
Job Requisition ID:
About Al-Futtaim
Established in the 1930s, Al-Futtaim is one of the most diversified and progressive privately held regional businesses, headquartered in Dubai. Operating across more than 20 countries, the Group spans automotive, financial services, real estate, retail and health. With more than 40,000 employees, Al-Futtaim represents over 200 of the world’s most recognised brands, including Toyota, Lexus, IKEA, ACE and Marks & Spencer. Driven by its purpose to enrich lives and elevate communities, Al-Futtaim focuses on digital innovation, AI, sustainable growth and strategic partnerships, creating long-term value for customers, communities and partners while building a responsible legacy for future generations.
Overview Of The Role:
- The Merchandise Planner supports and optimizes the buying and operational teams to achieve financial goals through accurate planning. In this role, the planner develops demand forecasts, manages inventory, collaborates with cross-functional teams, and provides insights on product performance to drive business objectives. A key part of the role is to ensure that product assortments align with market trends and customer preferences, maximizing sales opportunities.
Demand Forecasting & Inventory Management
- Develop and maintain forecasts for key product categories, considering sales trends, seasonal demands, promotions, and special events.
- Analyse historical sales data and market trends to create accurate demand models, ensuring optimal inventory levels across multiple locations.
- Monitor stock levels to prevent overstocking and stockouts, working with the supply chain team to address inventory challenges.
Assortment Planning
- Collaborate with the buying team to ensure assortments align with customer preferences, regional differences, and market trends.
- Plan the introduction of new products and phase-out of discontinued items to maximize shelf space and sales.
Sales Analysis & Performance Reporting
- Regularly analyse product performance, identifying opportunities for growth, and flagging underperforming SKUs.
- Provide actionable insights to senior management and the buying team based on sales data, promotional effectiveness, and competitor activity.
Cross Functional Collaboration
- Work with marketing, merchandising, and supply chain teams to ensure product launches are on schedule and aligned with promotional calendars.
- Support the store operations team to ensure optimal product placement and inventory allocation in stores and on the Marketplace.
Financial Planning & Budgeting
- Support the Merchandise Planning Manager in developing annual and seasonal budgets for your assigned categories.
- Manage in-season financial performance to meet margin, sales, and profitability targets.
Communication & Reporting
- Communicate stock levels, sales performance, and supply chain issues to senior management and other stakeholders.
- Prepare and present reports for key business reviews, including sales forecasts, inventory turns, and stock aging.
Required Skills To Be Successful:
- Strong analytical skills for analyzing sales data and market trends.
- Proficiency in MS Excel and data analysis tools.
- Excellent organizational and multitasking abilities.
- Strong communication and interpersonal skills.
What Qualifies You For The Role:
- Bachelor's degree in Business, Marketing, Merchandising, or a related field.
- Proven experience in merchandising, retail, or related roles, preferably in the toys or consumer goods industry.
- Strong analytical skills and proficiency in data analysis tools and software.
- Proficiency in MS Office Suite, particularly Excel and PowerPoint.
- Attention to detail and accuracy in planning and forecasting.
- Strong communication and interpersonal skills to work effectively across departments.
- Ability to work independently and as part of a team.
- Creative thinking and problem-solving abilities to adapt to market changes.
About Al-Futtaim Retail
At Al-Futtaim Retail, we are part of a 90-year legacy built on ambition, progress and long-term vision. As one of the region’s leading retail operators, we partner with some of the world’s most trusted brands – including IKEA, ACE, Marks & Spencer and the Inditex Group – bringing global excellence to customers across MENA and Southeast Asia.
We don’t just operate stores; we shape retail experiences. From launching brands like Watsons and Kiabi to our regions for the first time, to investing in digital innovation, AI capabilities, the customer experience and loyalty platforms, we are constantly redefining the future of retail.
With over 100 nationalities spread across more than 10 countries, our strength lies in our diverse and collaborative community. Here, you’re equipped to turn your ambition into action, building the career you want, while helping us move retail forwards.
Join us and be part of The Heart of Tomorrow.
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