Merchandise Planning - Project Lead

About the Role:

We have an exciting role available for a Merchandise Planning Project Lead to join us on a fixed term contract. Reporting to the Group General Manager of Merchandise Planning the Project Lead is accountable for leading the implementation and adoption of a new Merchandise Planning system and the processes that underpin it. The project encompasses multiple modules that will be implemented in sequence including:

• Allocation and Replenishment
• Merchandise Financial Planning
• Assortment Planning
• Item Planning

The role will be responsible for Project Leadership and guiding the Merchandise Planning solution through:

• Translating requirements between the business and the solution architect
• Managing project team & workload capacities
• Leading project planning sessions
• Coordinating internal resources
• Managing project progress and adjusting tasks as required
• Ensuring project meets deadlines
• Managing relationships with key stakeholders – internal and external
• Overseeing all project documentation
• Communicating identified risk and mitigation plan
• Conducting project review and creating detailed reports for Senior Leadership / Steering Group
• Optimising and improving processes and the overall approach where necessary

Change Management

• Developing change management plans for project
• Evaluating the impact of planned organisational change
• Identifying risks and developing risk mitigation tactics
• Identifying and managing anticipated resistance to change
• Development of communications both progress and as relevant to change initiatives
• Providing coaching and training to team members at all levels

To be successful you will have the following key attributes and skills required for this role:

• Experience in and strong understanding of Merchandise Planning fundamentals
• Experience in Project Management
• Analytical mindset and critical thinking
• Good problem-solving skills
• Proven ability to build strong working relationships
• Depth of experience managing multiple stakeholders to deliver outcomes
• A team player with a collaborative approach
• Conflict resolution and negotiation skills
• Good understanding of change management principles, techniques & tools
• Effective facilitation and influencing skills
• Excellent communication skills – both written and verbal
• Proven ability to work under pressure
• Detail orientated and organised with exceptional time management
• A strategic thinker with strong commercial and business acumen
• Affiliation with Accent Group Core values “Make it happen” attitude