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Hillier Nurseries is looking for a commercially minded and analytically strong Assistant Merchandise Planner to join our central team on a permanent, full‑time basis at our Hillier Support Centre in Ampfield, near Romsey. The postholder will work closely with Buyers, Merchandisers, suppliers, and centre teams to help deliver a compelling, well‑planned product offer that meets customer demand and supports Hillier’s trading strategy.
Job Responsibility:
Assist Buyers with new‑season assortment planning by analysing past performance at category, product, and supplier level
Develop forward‑planning documents incorporating sales forecasting and modelling across product, supplier, and category levels
Maintain an up‑to‑date understanding of customer buying habits and emerging trends within the gardening and leisure sectors
Maintain accurate product data within C&F, including active flags, pack sizes, season codes, costs, and retail prices
Update category actuals, including wastage, each Monday and ensure the WSSI reflects accurate trading information
Manage intake values and ensure orders align with the Open‑to‑Buy (OTB) within the WSSI plan
Identify risks and opportunities within the WSSI and recommend changes to forward plans in response to trading conditions
Set up and review replenishment settings to ensure stock levels support sales and presentation standards
Place new orders through manual allocation or system‑generated processes and amend orders where supplier issues arise
Monitor outstanding orders, chase overdue deliveries, and maintain accurate due dates
Create and maintain seasonal launch trackers for new product introductions or events
Build seasonal stock plans aligned to expected sales and promotional activity
Maintain product availability to agreed performance levels
Add pre‑nomination promotional forecasts to the trade plan and review with Buyers prior to sign‑off
Place allocations for confirmed promotions and update actual performance once activity is completed
Review and summarise promotional performance with Buyers after each promotional period
Maintain hibernation dates in C&F for products not currently available
Produce supplier fulfilment reports and highlight issues or risks
Build and maintain Joint Business Plans with key suppliers, including forecasts, promotions, and stock builds, reviewing monthly
Analyse sales, profit, and stock forecasts to identify insights and emerging trends, providing clear commercial recommendations
Run availability and long‑stock reports, creating action plans to resolve issues and minimise margin impact
Create, update, and monitor launch trackers and seasonal sell‑through trackers to support stock exit planning
Provide timely and accurate support to centres regarding stock queries, availability issues, and replenishment settings
Undertake any other reasonable duties required to support the merchandising function
Requirements:
Experience working within homeware or seasonal product categories
Strong analytical and numerical skills with the ability to interpret data and identify trends
High level of accuracy and attention to detail
Confident using Excel and data‑driven systems
Ability to manage multiple priorities in a fast‑paced environment
Clear communication skills and the ability to present insights in a concise, commercial manner
Strong organisational skills and a proactive approach to problem‑solving
Nice to have:
Experience in merchandising, planning, supply chain, or a commercial retail environment
Understanding of WSSI, OTB, forecasting, or replenishment systems
Experience working with suppliers or supporting commercial negotiations
Experience within a multi‑site or retail‑based organisation
Experience in garden, horticulture, or related product categories