Planning Manager – Retail (Dubai)

About the role

The Planning Manager will lead the strategic merchandise financial planning for Al-Futtaim Retail in the UAE. Reporting to senior leadership, the role partners closely with Buying and Operations to drive sales, margin and inventory performance across channels.

Key responsibilities

• Develop, execute and communicate strategic merchandise financial plans aligned with company objectives.
• Manage six‑month seasonal merchandise plans, reviewing and approving buy and reorder quantities.
• Oversee inventory receipts, weeks‑of‑supply targets and markdown strategies to protect margin.
• Lead the Monthly Business Review process, presenting forecasts and top‑line results.
• Guide planners on weekly unit plans, cross‑channel inventory allocation and store visits for performance monitoring.

Required profile

• Bachelor’s degree in Business Administration or a related field.
• 5+ years of retail planning experience, with 2‑4 years of team‑leadership experience.
• Strong analytical and commercial acumen to translate data into actionable insights.
• Proven ability to collaborate with buying, sales and operations teams.

Required skills

• Excel
• Merchandise planning systems