Position: Category Planner
Employment Type: Full-time, Hybrid
Overview
This role is responsible for leading merchandising (MD) strategy and execution for assigned product categories under the guidance of senior leadership. The position works closely with cross-functional stakeholders—including buying, planning, and finance teams—to maximize overall business performance.
Key Responsibilities
Strategic Planning & Budgeting
Contribute to company-wide budgeting (KPIs) through detailed analysis of business performance, category trends, and customer behavior
Propose optimal category allocation in collaboration with finance stakeholders
Develop annual, semi-annual, quarterly, and monthly sales plans, including hourly programming strategies
Category & Assortment Strategy
Conduct brand portfolio analysis within assigned categories to define assortment and pricing strategies
Partner with buying and planning teams to shape product mix and sales direction
Analyze customer insights to optimize pricing and category positioning
Sales & Programming Optimization
Determine airtime allocation across categories to maximize sales productivity
Set minimum performance targets and drive efficient use of sales channels (e.g., programming slots)
Develop strategic roadmaps for key promotional products and campaigns
Event & Promotion Planning
Analyze past events and define KPIs for future campaigns
Lead planning and execution of promotional events, including product selection and scheduling optimization
Inventory & Performance Management
Monitor inventory levels across categories and collaborate with finance on risk management
Prepare monthly reports for leadership, including performance insights and recommendations
Track and optimize category performance through data-driven decision-making
Omnichannel Strategy
Support development of omnichannel initiatives, working with digital and offline teams
Align on strategies to enhance both on-air and off-air sales performance
Stakeholder Collaboration
Act as a representative of the merchandising function in cross-functional meetings and projects
Work closely with teams across merchandising, digital commerce, and finance
Key Stakeholders
Merchandising (buyers, planners, category managers)
Digital commerce teams
Finance
Qualifications
Experience
Around 5 years of experience in merchandising, distribution, sales, or sales planning within retail
Experience in CRM, sales data analysis, and demand forecasting in B2C industries preferred
Skills
Strong analytical and data interpretation skills
Advanced proficiency in Microsoft Office (Excel, PowerPoint, etc.)
English proficiency is a plus
Employment Details
Working Style: Hybrid (office + remote)
Working Hours: Flexible schedule with no core hours
Holidays: Weekends, public holidays, and additional company-designated leave
Paid Leave: Generous annual leave plus special leave (e.g., birthday leave)
Benefits
Social insurance and retirement savings plan
Employee discounts and wellness programs
Training and development programs (including leadership training and e-learning)
Career development support, including internal mobility and skill-building initiatives
Office facilities such as cafeteria, relaxation spaces, and complimentary beverages
Location
Head office in the greater Tokyo area (within walking distance from a major train station)
Hiring Process
Resume screening
Multiple interview rounds (online)
Final offer subject to reference and background checks