Woolworths, a proud South African brand committed to transformation, is seeking a Planner: Protein & Dairy to join our Foods team at Head Office in Cape Town, Western Cape. This full-time role is perfect for an experienced professional with a Bachelor's degree or advanced diploma and 5+ years in retail planning, ideally within commercial sectors. You will lead catalogue and inventory planning, optimise product availability, and analyse customer and sales data to drive profitable growth. Collaborating with cross-functional teams, you will develop tactical plans, manage store clustering, and ensure seamless supply chain integration. Woolworths offers a dynamic environment that values strategic thinking, leadership, and innovation. Join us to contribute to impactful category planning and career growth in a company dedicated to excellence and inclusive employment equity.
- Bachelor's degree or advanced diploma in Commerce, Supply Chain, or related field preferred.
- Minimum of 5 years' experience in retail planning or commercial planning, preferably within the protein and dairy category.
- Strong analytical and numerical skills with proven ability to use statistical forecasting tools.
- In-depth understanding of supply chain operations including suppliers, distribution centres, and stores.
- Demonstrated experience in inventory management systems and forecasting techniques such as LDE forecasting.
- Excellent planning, organizational, and problem-solving skills with ability to work under pressure.
- Good business acumen and proven ability to drive category profitability through availability and waste management.
- Strong collaboration skills with experience in working cross-functionally across marketing, buying, and sales teams.
- Good computer literacy with proficiency in MS Office applications.
- Proven team player with leadership abilities and excellent communication skills to manage multiple stakeholders.
- Develop and manage accurate demand forecasts to optimise product availability within the Protein and Dairy category.
- Lead inventory planning processes, ensuring alignment with supply chain capabilities and catalogue requirements.
- Analyse sales, customer, and inventory data to identify trends, risks, and opportunities for category growth.
- Collaborate cross-functionally with marketing, buying, sales, and supply chain teams to deliver integrated category plans.
- Monitor and report on key performance indicators including sales, waste, availability, and inventory accuracy.
- Drive strategies to minimise waste and excess stock while maximising product availability and profitability.
- Support the execution of business projects, ensuring alignment with planning objectives and operational efficiency.
- Build and maintain effective relationships with suppliers, distribution centres, and stores to facilitate smooth operations.
- Contribute to the continuous improvement of planning tools and systems, including statistical forecasting models.
- Lead and mentor planning team members, fostering a collaborative and results-driven work environment.
