Assistant Planning Manager, DTC & Wholesale

JOB SUMMARY

We are seeking a highly analytical and agile Assistant Planning Manager to support the WFAS/WFTR, with additional responsibilities in RFAS planning. This role will also lead the management of excess inventory (COAS) across Asia, China, Japan, and EMEA, proposing strategic redistribution plans. The ideal candidate will be a proactive problem solver with strong planning experience, excellent retail math skills, and a passion for process improvement and automation. Experience with tools such as Power Automate, KNIME, Python, or other programming languages is a strong advantage.

RESPONSIBILITIES

Wholesale & Retail Planning

• Partner with Wholesale teams to develop annual POS sales and receipt plans.
• Prepare Monthly Re-forecast (MFR) for both Wholesale and Retail.
• Analyze partner inventory levels to ensure alignment with financial and merchandising goals.
• Provide analysis on Retail Asia and influence retail sales patterns to optimize wholesale performance.

Inventory & COAS Management

• Lead monthly reforecasting of shipment revenue (OTB), margin, receipts, and inventory.
• Analyze and recommend actions for excess inventory (COAS), including reallocation strategies across Asia, China, Japan, and EMEA.
• Highlight risks and opportunities in inventory flow; recommend actions such as chasing or reflowing receipts.

Business Reporting & Analysis

• Ensure accuracy and integrity of data submitted by wholesale partners.
• Communicate business performance and insights in weekly and monthly meetings.
• Develop and maintain dashboards and reports to support planning and decision-making.

Process Improvement & Automation

• Drive initiatives to streamline planning processes through automation and improved reporting.
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams to implement tools and workflows that enhance efficiency.
• Leverage technical skills (e.g., Power Automate, KNIME, Python) to build scalable solutions.

EDUCATION & PRIOR EXPERIENCE NEEDED

• Bachelor’s degree
• Strong analytical and business acumen
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office
• Knowledge of Power Query, Power Automate, or programming languages such as Python is a plus
• Experience with ERP systems used in planning and merchandising
• Strong organizational and communication skills
• Excellent analytical and creative problem-solving abilities
• Candidates with less experience may be considered for a Senior Planner role

DESIRED ATTRIBUTES

• Good interpersonal skills
• Adaptive and collaborative
• Client and Brand focus
• A fast learner, able to work independently in a fast paced and dynamic environment
• Detail oriented and analytical
• Self-directed and ability to prioritize
• Strong organizing and follow-up skills
• A good team player
• Functional Expertise