Demand Planning Executive (Retail)

Role Summary :

The Demand Planning Executive will play a key role in ensuring accurate demand forecasting and effective product lifecycle management. The position involves coordinating with sales teams to gather market insights, planning inventory and assortment, and driving the overall merchandising strategy to achieve sales and stock efficiency across categories.

Key Responsibilities :

1. Demand Forecasting & Planning

Liaise with the Sales Team to collect market insights, promotional plans, and sales projections for accurate demand forecasts.

Analyze sales trends, seasonality, and product performance to forecast future demand.

Maintain forecast accuracy through regular tracking, reviews, and adjustments.

Support monthly and quarterly demand planning reviews with cross-functional teams.

2. Category Management & Merchandising

Develop and maintain product assortment plans based on sales trends, store requirements, and category performance.

Identify potential new products or categories based on market demand and store feedback.

Plan and monitor product life cycles — from new launch to markdown, ensuring healthy sell-through and minimizing ageing inventory.

Define pricing and promotional strategies in alignment with sales and marketing objectives.

Track category-wise performance (bestsellers, slow movers, margins) and take data-driven actions for improvement.

Coordinate with supply chain and warehouse teams for timely replenishment and stock availability.

3. Inventory Management

Ensure optimal stock levels across stores and channels to prevent both stockouts and overstock situations.

Review inventory ageing, propose corrective actions like markdowns, transfers, or liquidation.

Monitor replenishment cycles and ensure adherence to product availability targets.

4. Reporting & Analysis

Prepare periodic reports on forecast accuracy, category performance, and stock health.

Present insights for management reviews, highlighting opportunities for growth or efficiency improvement.

Requirements :

Strong analytical and numerical ability with proficiency in Excel / Google Sheets .

Good understanding of retail merchandising and inventory dynamics .

Strong coordination and communication skills to work with Sales, Supply Chain, and Operations.

Attention to detail with a structured and data-driven approach.

Knowledge of ERP / demand planning systems will be an advantage.

Educational Qualification :

Bachelor’s degree in Business, Retail Management, Supply Chain, or related field.

Postgraduate diploma in Retail, Merchandising, or SCM will be an added advantage.