Senior Merchandise Planner

About the Company

Established in 1982, The Warehouse has played a significant role in the lives of New Zealanders across generations, from their first school uniforms to important family milestones. As a vital part of communities throughout Aotearoa, the company is transforming its Merchandise Planning function to build a future-oriented retail business that better serves Kiwi customers. This role forms part of one of the company’s most pivotal evolutions.

Job Overview

We are intentionally redesigning our planning team to enhance capability, improve decision-making, and provide transparent career progression. The Senior Merchandise Planner will manage a sizable merchandise portfolio, contributing directly to commercial success in some of the country’s largest retail categories.

This role encompasses long-term strategic planning that balances customer demand, inventory investment, profitability, and risk. You will collaborate with Buying, Supply Chain, Finance, and senior commercial leaders to translate strategies into actionable plans that spur sustainable growth.

Additionally, this position includes leadership responsibilities, coaching Associate Merchandise Planners and supporting the development of a high-performing culture.

Key Responsibilities

• Develop and implement category and seasonal planning strategies.
• Manage sales, margin, inventory, and profitability targets for your portfolio.
• Create reliable forecasts and stock investment plans aligned with commercial goals.
• Maintain a balance between customer demand, stock availability, and working capital limits.
• Recognize risks and opportunities to proactively influence trading outcomes.
• Lead performance reviews on a weekly, monthly, and seasonal basis.
• Translate complex data analyses into clear guidance for senior leadership.
• Influence strategic decisions related to ranging, promotions, and inventory investments.
• Forge strong partnerships with Buying, Supply Chain, Allocation, Stores, and Finance teams.
• Coach Associate Merchandise Planners and promote a culture of accountability and continuous improvement.

Candidate Profile

The successful candidate will have a wealth of experience in retail merchandise planning with strong commercial and analytical skills. Confidence in challenging perspectives, influencing leaders, and navigating change is essential. You are strategic yet pragmatic, and passionate about mentoring peers and fostering team growth.

• Proven extensive experience in merchandise planning within retail.
• Expertise in forecasting, inventory management, and commercial planning.
• Advanced skills in analysis and financial acumen.
• Proven ability to influence senior stakeholders and work collaboratively across teams.
• Strong coaching and talent development skills.
• Strategic thinker with a practical approach to trade execution.
• Enthusiasm for developing future merchandise planning talent.

Additional Information

This role offers the unique chance to shape the future of Merchandise Planning at The Warehouse Group—not just maintaining existing structures but building new capabilities.

Benefits

• Employee discounts across multiple brands.
• Birthday leave and a dedicated charity day off.
• 26 weeks of paid parental leave.
• Access to free parking and electric vehicle charging at the North Shore office.
• Flexible work environment including one day per week working from home (Friday).
• Onsite gym and café with scenic views at Northcote support office.
• Comprehensive wellness and professional development support.