About the Opportunity

An exciting opportunity has become available at the  Cape Union Mart Chain, for a commercial, efficient, and influential Head of Planning.

The successful candidate will play a key strategic role in leading the merchandise planning team for the Cape Union Mart chain. This position is critical in driving long-term business objectives, profitability, and overall performance within this dynamic and growing division.

We’re looking for an individual who aligns with the Cape Union Mart Group’s vision and embodies the spirit of adventure and performance that defines our chain. The ideal candidate will be commercial, results-driven, and able to lead their team through the full end-to-end planning process in a fast-paced retail environment.

Key Duties and Responsibilities

• Deliver accurate and strategic seasonal plans and forecasts for the Outdoor Division.
• Lead and manage the planning Team to drive optimal performance and growth.
• Ensure strategic and seasonal plans are consistently executed to meet departmental and business KPIs.
• Monitor departmental performance and ensure merchandise objectives are achieved through proactive management.
• Manage departmental expenses in line with the approved budget.
• Build and maintain strong cross-functional partnerships with key stakeholders across organisational divisions.
• Drive results through effective people leadership, sales management, reporting, and analysis.

Knowledge, Experience & Qualifications

• A relevant tertiary qualification (essential).
•  5 years’ retail merchandise planning experience (preferred).
• 5 leadership experience managing a planning team (preferred).
• Experience in a fashion, lifestyle, or outdoor retail environment (preferred).
• Strong knowledge of the retail cycle and merchandise planning principles.
• Sound working knowledge of retail planning systems such as PLM and Oracle.
• Advanced Excel proficiency is required.

Job-Related Competencies

• Strong strategic, logical, and analytical thinking skills.
• Excellent numerical reasoning and commercial insight.
• A proactive, trader mentality with a focus on profitability and performance.
• Proven ability to lead, motivate, and develop a high-performing team.
• Strong collaboration and influencing skills across all business levels.
• Excellent communication and presentation skills.
• Strong organizational, planning, and time management capabilities.
• Skilled in conflict resolution and negotiation.
• High levels of energy, resilience, and agility to perform under pressure.

Equity Statement

The Cape Union Mart Group is committed to transformation. Appointments will be made based on candidates who best meet the requirements for the position. Candidates who will enhance the diversity of the team will be given preference, in line with our Employment Equity Plan.