Demand Planner at Ultra Liquors (2026-02 – Present)
- Develop and maintain demand forecasts using statistical models and business insights.
- Analyse sales data, market trends and seasonality to predict future demand.
- Collaborate with sales, marketing and product teams to incorporate promotions and campaigns into forecasts.
- Monitor forecast accuracy and adjust forecasting models as required.
- Support and drive Sales & Operations Planning (S&OP) processes.
- Identify demand risks and opportunities and communicate findings to stakeholders.
- Optimise inventory levels to reduce stock-outs and excess inventory.
- Prepare demand planning reports, KPIs and dashboards for senior management.
Retail Planner at Procter & Gamble (2024-04 – 2026-01)
- Review weekly stock reports and implement replenishment plans to maintain optimal availability.
- Coordinate promotion confirmations between buyers and clients; partner with DC replenishers to build stock levels ahead of promotional events.
- Manage and track aging stock; identify stores not ranging KVI lines and engage Meridian channel manager to resolve.
- Communicate consistently with buyers and DC replenishers on promotions, forecasts and stock management.
- Drive process efficiencies and implement improvements to ensure stock optimisation across the network.
- Oversee daily order management, pricing/Ti-Hi maintenance and master data for new and discontinued listings.
- Build FTL truck loads into the DC using the FTL tool; ensure deliveries are executed on scheduled NDD.
- Produce monthly order management health reports including returns, rejections and claims investigation.
Buyer at Massmart (2023-05 – 2023-12)
- Procured product ranges and built compelling, optimal assortments in line with Category Strategy and price-leadership objectives.
- Managed key supplier relationships to optimise sourcing, supply and pricing; conducted regular supplier meetings to support target achievement.
- Coordinated range review process and presented product assortments to Merchandise Manager.
- Determined assortment clustering methodology by sub-category to optimise store relevance and stock efficiency.
- Developed clearance plans and exit strategies for slow-moving and end-of-life product.
- Negotiated cost prices; set retail selling prices for optimal margin performance.
- Oversaw implementation of promotional activities and supported digital campaigns; managed promotional item selection in line with advertising strategy.
- Continuously identified new supplier opportunities and exercised leadership in guiding visual merchandising and space-planning teams.
Planning Mentorship (Graduate Programme) at Massmart (2021-09 – 2022-03)
- Developed and maintained category forecasts incorporating historical data to inform ongoing and promotional plans.
- Applied customer demand insights to drive effective, relevant promotional strategies.
- Managed assortment allocation methodologies; reviewed manual allocations before execution.
- Maintained tight inventory control to maximise cash flow and minimise excess stock.
- Collaborated with vendors to optimise pack sizes and ensure fill-rate efficiency.
Merchandise Controller at Massmart (MassBuild) (2017-01 – 2023-03)
- Assisted buyers in product basket selection; created, placed and tracked purchase orders.
- Negotiated with vendors to ensure products were purchased to specification at competitive prices; built long-term supplier relationships.
- Prepared competitive retail and pricing strategies; planned, monitored and maintained inventory levels.
- Compiled reports on product performance and statistics; prepared budgets and forecasting purchasing trends.
Inventory Controller at Imperial Retail (2015-09 – 2017-02)
- Managed monthly stock reporting, clean-up and full stock takes across Head Office Bulk Warehouse and national distribution partners.
- Investigated damages and short-supplied stock; actioned negative and variance reporting and adjustments.
- Managed stock transfers and queries; maintained stable employee relations through positive conflict resolution.
