Category Planning Manager

Job description Category Planner Retail/Salon Industry Were seeking a strategic and detail-oriented Category Planner to join our Planning team. This internal-facing role focuses on forecasting, inventory optimization, and performance analysisno buying responsibilities. Key Responsibilities: Planning: Build pre/in-season sales, inventory, and assortment plans aligned with promotions and sales cycles. Demand & Supply Planning: Translate demand signals into actionable supply plans. Monitor and adjust forecasts to maintain optimal stock levels across retail and salon locations. Forecasting & Inventory: Develop accurate forecasts; manage stock levels and replenishment across salon and retail locations. Collaboration: Work with Operations, Marketing, and Store teams to align category strategies with business goals; manage product lifecycles. Performance & Reporting: Track KPIs, generate reports, and provide insights to drive category growth and efficiency. Qualifications: MBA required – Full Time 5+ years in category/merchandise planning (retail, wellness, or beauty preferred) Advanced Excel skills; experience with planning and analytics tools Strong analytical, communication, and multitasking abilities Understanding of salon/retail product cycles and trends is a plus Role: Merchandise / Retail Planner Industry Type: Beauty & Personal Care Department: Merchandising, Retail & eCommerce Employment Type: Full Time, Permanent Role Category: Merchandising & Planning Education PG: MBA/PGDM in Any Specialization Key Skills Skills highlighted with ‘‘ are preferred keyskills Inventory Planning Stock PlanningDemand PlanningPerformance ManagementDistribution PlanningPlanningDemand ForecastingForecasting