Planning Manager, John Lewis Partnership

Opportunity Review: Merchandising Planning Manager, Waitrose Fresh Foods

For ambitious professionals seeking a dynamic role within a leading employee-owned business, the Merchandising Planning Manager position within Waitrose's Fresh Foods department presents a compelling career opportunity. This role offers a chance to significantly impact the strategic direction and operational success of key growth areas, including Food Service, Cafe, and In-Store Bakery propositions.

Advantages for Candidates:

• Strategic Impact and Growth: You will be at the forefront of planning and delivering strategic change, directly influencing the growth of Waitrose in exciting and evolving areas. This role is designed for individuals who thrive on setting objectives and seeing them through to successful execution.
• Team Leadership and Development: This position offers the chance to lead and inspire a dedicated team of Partners. You'll have the opportunity to foster a high-performing culture, develop talent, and contribute to the Partnership's succession plan, ensuring a strong pipeline of skilled individuals for the future.
• Cross-Functional Collaboration: The role demands close collaboration with a wide range of departments, including Trading, Supply Chain, Online, Space & Range, Forecasting, and Retail. This provides invaluable exposure to diverse business functions and strengthens your understanding of the end-to-end supply chain.
• Influence and Stakeholder Management: You'll be a key influencer, working with Heads of CPG, suppliers, retail teams, and distribution partners. This will hone your communication and negotiation skills, enabling you to drive consensus and achieve shared KPIs.
• Employee Ownership and Partnership Culture: As part of the John Lewis Partnership, you will become a Partner, sharing in the rewards and responsibilities of the UK's largest employee-owned business. This unique ownership model fosters a strong sense of belonging, collaboration, and shared purpose.
• Hybrid Working Model: The Partnership embraces a hybrid working approach, offering flexibility to balance personal needs with business requirements. This allows for a more integrated work-life balance, with an aim for two days per week in the Bracknell Head Office for connection and collaboration.
• Competitive Compensation: The salary range of £54,500 - £84,100 reflects the seniority and importance of this role, offering attractive remuneration for the right candidate.

Key Considerations for Candidates:

• Commercial Acumen and Strategic Thinking: Success in this role hinges on a strong commercial awareness, a deep understanding of trade and customer strategies, and the ability to translate these into effective stock replenishment plans.
• End-to-End Supply Chain Expertise: A broad understanding of the entire supply chain, from supplier to customer, is crucial. You'll need to leverage this knowledge to balance availability, wastage, and stockholding effectively.
• Adaptability and Problem-Solving: The retail landscape is constantly changing. You must be adept at refining plans in response to market dynamics, customer behaviour, promotional activity, and external influences. Proactive risk identification and mitigation will be key.
• Data Analysis and Reporting: The ability to collate, analyze, and interpret data to inform decision-making and report on KPIs is essential. Familiarity with merchandising and logistical planning tools is required.
• Stakeholder Engagement: Building and maintaining strong relationships with both internal and external stakeholders, including suppliers, is paramount. Your ability to influence and collaborate will be continuously tested.
• Commitment to Continuous Improvement: A growth mindset and a dedication to identifying and implementing process improvements will be vital for driving operational excellence and achieving strategic goals.

This Merchandising Planning Manager role is an excellent opportunity for a seasoned professional looking to make a significant contribution to a beloved retail brand within a unique and rewarding employee-owned environment. If you are a strategic thinker with strong leadership skills and a passion for supply chain excellence, this position offers a clear path for career growth and impact.