Merchandise Planning Manager

The Advocate Group are proud to be partnering with Ariat in their search for a Merchandise Planning Manager to lead and develop their planning function. Founded on innovation, performance and quality, Ariat has built a strong international reputation across equestrian, outdoor and lifestyle markets, with ambitious plans for continued growth.

This pivotal leadership role offers the opportunity to shape the planning function, develop a high-performing team, and introduce new processes and ways of working to support the next stage of the business.

The Role:

• You’ll lead the planning function, ensuring the business has the right stock, at the right time and in the right quantities, while maximising sales and minimising stock risk.
• Lead, develop and coach the planning team, driving high performance and best practice.
• Own forecasting and planning across wholesale, e-commerce, marketplaces and events.
• Set and manage sales and stock targets across departments and sub-categories.
• Drive excellent product availability across core and seasonal ranges.
• Work closely with Product to identify opportunities and drive category growth.
• Manage the purchasing critical path, working closely with Ariat International in the US.
• Oversee purchase orders, SAP processes, and ongoing improvements to planning systems.
• Provide regular commercial reporting and actionable sales and stock insight.
• Identify opportunities to improve existing processes and introduce new ways of working.
• Build strong relationships with US planning partners and wider business stakeholders.
• Play a key role in shaping the future direction of the planning function as Ariat continues to grow.

About You:

• We’re looking for an experienced and commercially astute planning leader who can combine strategic thinking with a hands‑on approach.
• 5+ years’ planning experience within retail, fashion, wholesale, e-commerce or FMCG.
• Proven leadership and change management experience.
• Strong forecasting, stock management and commercial analysis skills.
• Experience working with apparel, footwear or consumer fashion products.
• Advanced Excel skills and experience using SAP.
• Confidence working with large datasets and turning analysis into actionable insight.
• Excellent organisation, prioritisation and time‑management skills.
• Strong stakeholder management and communication skills.
• A collaborative, proactive and commercially focused approach.

We are an equal opportunities employer and welcome applications from all suitably qualified persons regardless of their race, sex, disability, religion/belief, sexual orientation, or age.

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