Director Assortment Planning Training EMEA

Hilversum, reference 2026-00885

Job description

The role is responsible for developing accurate demand forecasts, optimizing assortment plans, and supporting business growth through data-driven decision-making. The position analyzes consumer demand, market trends, sales data, and business insights to improve forecast accuracy and enable effective product planning.
The role partners with Merchandising, Sport, Sales, and S&IM teams to create strategic seasonal assortment plans, optimize inventory and sales performance, and provide clear demand signals to Supply Planning and Sourcing teams. The position also supports process improvements and provides expertise within demand and assortment planning functions.

• Develop accurate demand forecasts by analyzing consumer demand, market trends, sales data, and business insights to support effective product planning and customer profitability.
• Create and maintain short-term account and brand-specific forecasts by incorporating replenishment data, customer information, promotional activities, marketing plans, and product lifecycle changes.
• Utilize statistical analysis, forecasting tools, and data-driven decision-making techniques to improve forecast accuracy and identify demand patterns.
• Provide technical expertise, guidance, and support within the demand planning function while ensuring effective communication and documentation.
• Analyze internal and external demand signals, market conditions, and sell-through performance to deliver reliable global forecasts.
• Co-own the EMEA Assortment Plan by collaborating with Merchandising, Sport teams to create strategic seasonal plans focused on profitability, productivity, and consumer-focused offerings.
• Ensure clear demand signals are provided to Supply Planning and Sourcing teams to support seasonal business objectives.

Requirements

• Lead Assortment Planning activities for assigned Sports categories and support the development of Assortment Planners through coaching, feedback, and continuous learning opportunities.
• Promote an inclusive and collaborative team environment that encourages transparency, innovation, and new ways of working.
• Drive adoption of improved planning capabilities, processes, and tools while supporting continuous business optimization initiatives.
• Manage seasonal Assortment Plans from initial planning stages through in-season responsive planning at Franchise/Product Family and Channel levels.
• Own Open-to-Buy (OTB) plans and optimize sales, margin, inventory levels, and overall product health.
• Monitor Franchise/Product Family performance and align plans with global business targets and market needs.
• Develop Responsive and Advanced Analytics forecasts by combining analytical insights with business feedback to optimize revenue and inventory outcomes.
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams including Merchandising, Direct Business, Sales, and S&IM to support key seasonal Sport and Marketplace initiatives.
• Demonstrate strong analytical, communication, and stakeholder management skills with the ability to influence business decisions.

Working conditions

Contract via Undutchables and competitive secondary benefits.Est. Start Date: 13/07/2026Est. End Date: 31/12/2026Visa sponsorship will not be provided for this position

Work location

Hilversum

Company description

Our client is a big player in the retail space.

Good to know

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Recruiter contact

Elcin Arici, Eindhoven
elcin.arici@undutchables.nl
+31(0)6-18093399