Job Description

To lead and execute the merchandise operational strategy in alignment with the broader merchandise and company objectives. This role is pivotal in driving sales, optimizing profitability, and enhancing the customer experience through strategic planning, operational excellence, and effective cross-functional collaboration.



Qualifications: Education:



Relevant degree or equivalent NQF Level 6 qualification in Retail, Business Management, Supply Chain, or related field.



Experience:



Minimum of 5 years' experience in a senior Merchandise Planning or Operations leadership role within a retail environment.



Key Skills & Competencies



Strong financial planning, budgeting, and cost management capabilities.

In-depth understanding of merchandise management principles and retail operations.

Proficient in process optimization and operational excellence methodologies.

Effective people management, including coaching, performance management, and disciplinary procedures.

Advanced analytical and problem-solving skills, with the ability to interpret complex data and drive actionable insights.

Expertise in policy development, implementation, and compliance.

High-level computer literacy, including advanced Excel skills (data modelling, pivot tables, forecasting) and familiarity with retail management systems.

Excellent verbal and written communication skills, with the ability to influence and collaborate across teams.

Strong leadership qualities with a focus on talent development and team motivation.

Strategic thinker with a commercial mindset, able to align operational activities with business goals.

Solid understanding of retail market dynamics, including trend analysis, risk forecasting, and competitive intelligence.

Familiarity with internal systems and tools relevant to merchandise operations and location planning.



Mr Price Group Limited is an equal opportunity employer and is committed to Employment Equity.



Responsibilities: 1. Strategic Planning & Execution



Contribute to the development and execution of the merchandise operations strategy in line with overall business goals.

Communicate the strategy clearly across stakeholders to ensure alignment and consistent implementation.

Conduct post-season reviews in collaboration with Operations and Location Planning to inform future strategy using in-store performance data and seasonal trends.



2. Sales Performance Optimization



Re-forecast sales with Location Planning and Merchandise Planning teams using current trade and in-store insights.

Identify risks and opportunities, driving proactive actions to meet or exceed revised sales forecasts.

Optimize GMROI (Gross Margin Return on Investment) and GMROM (Gross Margin Return on Merchandising) to ensure efficient inventory use and improved profitability.



3. Growth, Test Locations & Space Optimization



Identify and implement product strategies to support growth through new store openings, revamps, and relocations.

Collaborate with cross-functional teams to design customer-centric layouts that improve shop ability and revenue generation.

Lead test location planning and execution, monitoring performance against control stores to assess effectiveness.

Partner with Store Design and Operations to create space-optimized layouts that enhance the visual merchandising and customer journey.

Analyse rollout results and provide data-led recommendations for continuous improvement.



4. Store Revamps & Strategic Initiatives



Oversee merchandise and operational execution for store revamps and format updates.

Work closely with Visual Merchandising, Store Design, and Operations to ensure layouts reflect brand identity and customer behaviour insights.

Ensure customer-focused design principles are prioritized to improve navigation, shop ability, and space productivity.

Support business transformation initiatives and process innovations to continuously elevate merchandise operations and customer experience.



5. Leadership & People Development



Lead, coach, and develop high-performing Location Planning and Store Operations teams to execute strategy with excellence.

Drive a performance culture through talent development, including training, succession planning, and performance management.
* Champion collaboration, accountability, and continuous improvement across the operational function.