Planning Manager – Retail (UAE)

About the role

The Planning Manager will lead strategic merchandise financial planning for Al Futtaim Retail, driving sales and margin performance through accurate forecasting and inventory strategies. This role works closely with Buying and Operations teams to align plans with financial objectives and to optimise cross‑channel inventory.

Key responsibilities

• Develop and communicate strategic merchandise financial plans, partnering with Buying & Operations to maximise sales and margin.
• Manage six‑month seasonal merchandise plans, review and approve buy and reorder quantities.
• Oversee receipts and inventory against weeks‑of‑supply targets, and drive markdown and promotional strategies.
• Lead the Monthly Business Review process, presenting forecasts and top‑line results.
• Direct planners to ensure optimal inventory across channels and travel to stores for performance observation.

Required profile

• Bachelor's degree in Business Administration or a related field.
• 5+ years of experience in retail planning, with 2‑4 years of team‑leadership experience preferred.
• Strong commercial acumen and ability to translate data into actionable insights.
• Proficiency with merchandise planning systems, forecasting tools and advanced Excel analysis.

Required skills

• Excel
• Merchandise planning systems