Job Title: Senior Associate- Planning & Category
Experience: 5+ years
Location: Bengaluru
Role Summary
We are looking for a Planning & Category professional to drive category performance through merchandise planning, demand forecasting, pricing strategy, and inventory optimization. This role will work closely with cross‑functional teams to ensure strong sell‑through, in‑stock availability, and profitable growth of the category across channels.
Experience in the denim category will be an added advantage.
Key Responsibilities
Category Planning & Performance
- Own end‑to‑end business planning for the category, including revenue, margin, and growth targets
- Track daily/weekly/monthly performance and analyze sell‑through, inventory turns, and product performance
- Identify growth opportunities across sub‑categories (fits, styles, price segments, etc.)
Demand Planning & Inventory Management
- Forecast demand and plan inventory to ensure optimal stock levels and avoid stockouts/overstocking
- Work closely with supply chain and sourcing teams to manage inwards, replenishment, and allocation
- Monitor ageing inventory and drive liquidation strategies
Pricing & Promotion Strategy
- Develop and execute pricing strategies based on market benchmarks and competition
- Plan and manage discounting, markdowns, and promotional campaigns
- Align with platform calendars (marketplaces & D2C) for maximum visibility and conversions
Data Analysis & Insights
- Analyze data from dashboards and reports to derive actionable insights on category performance
- Track key metrics such as GMV, revenue, conversion rate, ASP, and inventory health
- Recommend improvements in assortment, pricing, and merchandising based on data
Cross‑Functional Coordination
- Collaborate with merchandising, design, sourcing, supply chain, and marketing teams
- Align product launches, campaigns, and inventory availability with business goals
- Work closely with marketplace teams for execution of category plans
Qualifications & Experience
- Bachelor's degree (MBA preferred)
- 5+ years of experience in category management / planning / merchandising
- Strong understanding of D2C, e‑commerce, and marketplace operations
- Experience in apparel/fashion industry
- Denim category experience is a plus
Required Skills & Competencies
- Strong analytical skills and proficiency in Excel / Google Sheets
- Understanding of fashion retail metrics and inventory planning
- Ability to work with large data sets and derive insights
- Strong stakeholder management and coordination skills
- High ownership, attention to detail, and execution focus
