Demand Planning Manager

Designation – Manager – Merchandise Planning (Demand)

Reports to – AGM Merchandise Planning (Demand)

Location – Dubai

The Manager – Merchandise Planning (Demand) will be responsible for driving accurate demand forecasts, managing OTBs, and supporting strategic buying decisions for the Menswear (Young Man) category. The role requires strong analytical capability, commercial acumen, and the ability to work closely with Buying, Merchandising, and Supply Chain teams in a multi-brand environment.

Key Responsibilities

• Own and manage end-to-end demand planning for the Menswear / Young Man category.

• Develop accurate sales forecasts at category, brand, and SKU levels to support buying and inventory decisions.

• Manage OTBs (Open-to-Buy) effectively, ensuring optimal inventory levels aligned with business targets.

• Partner closely with Buying and Merchandising teams to support strategic and tactical buying decisions, especially during buying weeks.

• Analyze sell-through, stock cover, ageing, and replenishment metrics to drive corrective actions.

• Prepare and present data-driven insights and recommendations to stakeholders during buying reviews and trading meetings.

• Utilize advanced analytics tools to track performance and identify trends, risks, and opportunities.

• Support planning for multi-brand portfolios, balancing category performance and business priorities.

• Ensure alignment between demand plans, supply constraints, and business growth objectives.

Key Skills & Competencies

• Strong expertise in Demand Planning and Inventory Management within fashion/retail.

• Hands-on experience managing OTBs in a dynamic retail environment.

• Advanced proficiency in Excel, Power BI, and Board platform (or similar planning tools).

• Highly number-oriented, analytical, and detail-focused.

• Confident and well-presented, especially during buying weeks and senior stakeholder interactions.

• Strong business partnering and communication skills.

Preferred Background

• Experience in leading apparel or fashion retailers such as ABFRL, Reliance Apparel, Bestseller, Shoppers Stop, Redtag, or similar organizations.

• Exposure to Menswear / Young Man categories is highly preferred.

• Experience handling multi-brand portfolios.