Online Buyer-Planner
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Melbourne, VIC, Australia
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Marketing / Digital / PR / Events
ABOUT DESIGNWORKS
Designworks brings brands to life, setting the standard for excellence in brand management across Australia and New Zealand. Our agile and creative team manages the design, development, production and marketing of owned, licensed and private label apparel, footwear and sports equipment across a portfolio of around 25 brands from Everlast and Umbro, to Ed Hardy and Volley to Bluey and The Wiggles.
We are one of Australia’s leading suppliers to major and independent retailers, with a growing online presence across our 3 e-commerce platforms – Umbro, Volley and Everlast.
ROLE IN A NUTSHELL
As the Online Buyer/Planner, you will be responsible for managing the end-to-end merchandising process for three e-commerce website categories as well as assortment planning, inventory management, demand forecasting, and driving sales growth through data-driven buying decisions. This role is critical in aligning product selection with customer preferences, brand positioning, and revenue goals across digital platforms.
WHAT YOU’LL BE DOING
- Select and purchase seasonal assortments of apparel and footwear aligned with brand vision and consumer trends.
- Analyse market trends and customer preferences to inform buying decisions.
- Negotiate pricing, delivery terms, and promotional support with vendors and suppliers.
- Develop and manage open-to-buy (OTB) plans, forecasting demand at style and SKU levels.
- Create detailed merchandise plans to meet sales, margin, and inventory turn goals.
- Collaborate with marketing, e-commerce, and logistics teams to align product launches, promotions, and stock availability.
- Monitor and react to sales performance, adjusting plans and inventory in-season as needed.
- Produce weekly/monthly performance reports to track KPIs including sales, gross margin, sell-through, and inventory health.
- Provide post-season analysis and recommend actions for future assortments.
- Use data insights to optimize pricing, markdowns, and replenishment strategies.
- Drive the e-commerce platforms to achieve budgeted sales and gross profit margins and provide regular forecasts to the business.
ABOUT YOU
The ideal candidate will come with..
- Substantial experience in a combination of buying and merchandise planning, preferably in apparel and/or footwear, within an e-commerce environment an advantage.
- Strong analytical and financial acumen; advanced Excel or planning tool proficiency required.
- Understanding of digital retail strategies, omnichannel commerce, and seasonal buying cycles.
- Excellent communication, negotiation, and stakeholder management skills.
- Knowledge of retail math, inventory planning, and demand forecasting.
- Experience with inventory planning software an advantage.
JUST SOME PERKS WE OFFER
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Pet-friendly workspace – Yes, your furry friend can join you at work!
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Epic discounts – Up to 50% off top brands like Reebok, Superdry, and Clarks!
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Exclusive LK Group perks – Treat yourself to savings at Daniel’s Donuts, Hommey, Snooze & more!
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VIP access to sample sales – Get first dibs on incredible deals
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Leave when it matters – Paid parental leave, volunteer leave & purchased leave options.
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Novated leasing – Drive your dream car with ease.
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Loyalty rewards – We celebrate your milestones with generous service awards!
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Well-being matters – Free access to Mental Health Professionals through our Employee Assistance Program.
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And more…Because work should come with awesome perks!
READY TO MAKE AN IMPACT?
With a focus on data-driven buying, you'll manage assortment planning, inventory, and demand forecasting to drive sales growth. This role is vital in aligning product strategy with customer preferences, brand identity, and revenue goals across digital platforms.