The Retail Planning Assistant supports the Sales and Commercial teams in a variety of operational, administrative, and analytical tasks. This role covers all sales channels of the business, including both physical retail stores and e-commerce platforms. The Assistant works closely with the Head Office Commercial team, focusing on areas such as supply, operations, and merchandising, ensuring smooth execution of retail planning processes across all brands.
Sales and launch planning support
- Assist the Commercial Planning Manager with administrative duties related to sales forecasts, new product launches, and weekly replenishment reports.
- Contribute to launch order forecasting, ensuring stock availability and operational readiness across all retail channels.
- Work with the Commercial Planning Manager to provide accurate retail forecasts, considering current sales trends and potential stock challenges.
- Proactively support stock management processes to identify and mitigate stock issues in collaboration with supply and demand teams.
Retail and stock management
- Liaise with warehouse teams to manage critical paths for product launches, replenishment, and seasonal periods.
- Ensure optimal stock levels in physical stores and e-commerce platforms, liaising with the field team to adjust stock as needed to meet sales targets.
- Assist with regular stock reconciliation activities, ensuring product availability and accurate stock reporting.
Administrative and reporting duties
- Support the planning and organisation of key retail events and meetings, helping to prepare materials and track progress.
- Assist with ad-hoc manual orders and data entry to ensure that retail operations run efficiently.
- Maintain and report on sales performance, stock movements, and any discrepancies to support decision-making.
Supplier and retailer liaison
- Support new store openings, liaising with internal teams to ensure seamless product setups and stock availability.
- Assist in managing relationships with external suppliers and retailers, ensuring accurate product movement tracking.
Summary
The Retail Planning Assistant plays a vital role in ensuring the smooth operation of retail planning and merchandising for all Estée Lauder Companies brands. By supporting sales forecasting, stock management, and the execution of product launches, this role helps optimise product availability, enhance sales performance, and improve operational efficiency across various retail and e-commerce channels.
What you will need to be succesful in this role
- Strong organisational skills with the ability to manage multiple tasks and meet deadlines in a fast-paced environment.
- Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite (Excel, PowerPoint, Word)
- Excellent attention to detail and analytical skills, with a strong interest in working with data and numbers.
- Ability to work under pressure and juggle multiple projects with a high degree of autonomy.
- Strong communication skills, both verbal and written, and the ability to collaborate with internal teams.
- Positive, flexible attitude with a willingness to learn and develop within the company.
Qualifications
- Previous experience in retail, commercial planning, or merchandising is desirable.
- Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite (Excel, PowerPoint, Word); familiarity with SAP and Power BI is an advantage.
- A background in business, retail management, or a related field is preferred.
- Interest in the beauty, luxury, or retail sectors is beneficial.