Job Description
About Kathmandu…
Kathmandu is a leading global outdoor brand whose journey began in Aotearoa, New Zealand in 1987. We believe out there is where we thrive. It liberates, challenges, and inspires us. Our gear is built to empower, so more people can embrace adventure. It’s tested in New Zealand’s wildest conditions — because if it performs here, it can handle anywhere. As a proud certified B Corp, we prioritise people and planet in everything we do — out of respect for the natural world that inspires us. Our pioneering approach to sustainable innovation ensures every product is built to perform and made with a lighter impact on the environment.
We've been out there for almost 40 years living our best lives. Now you can too. Join us on our mission to improve the wellbeing of the world through the great outdoors.
A little bit about the role…
We’re looking for a Merchandise Demand Planner/ Projects SME to join our team in a 12-month fixed term opportunity. As a Merchandise/demand planner you will manage the planning and forecasting function for your portfolio across all channels. You will partner in developing the strategy for your portfolio and execute effectively to maximise sales, profit and inventory. You will support the development of forward plans and OTB. As a project SME you will support the development and implementation of merchandise systems (demand & replenishment) and processes, that enable us to elevate our execution and effective stock management.
Own the end to end planning cycle from budget and hindsight reviews through to assortment planning, segmentation, forecasting and merchandise plan development.
Analyse in season performance, deliver trade insights and recommendations, and manage demand to OTB including order recommendations, size analysis and delivery optimisation.
Monitor and interpret performance across all channels (online, wholesale, corporate, retail) and recommend stock management strategies, ensuring alignment with allocation and buying teams.
Manage phase in/phaseout processes, clearance transitions and markdown cycles to maximise sell through and ensure efficient exit of obsolete inventory.
Support the implementation of Just Enough modules, document processes, complete UAT, and contribute to ongoing system embedment and continuous improvement.
Collaborate closely with buyers, allocators, purchasing, product teams, regional managers, digital partners and DC teams to ensure aligned objectives and smooth execution.
You’ll thrive in this role if you are:
A demonstrated tenacity, passion and knowledge for Merchandise and Inventory management, and analysis
Initiative & pro-activity
Excellent communications/ stakeholder management skills, both verbal and written including the ability to present insights and financials at all levels of the business
Understanding of Project Management methodology and systems implementation
Merchandise Financial Planning
Demand/Supply Planning
Strong financial acumen and analytical skills
Ability to multi-task, prioritise
Training and Documentation – ability to influence and lead a successful project
High proficiency in Microsoft 365 and BI tools (Microstrategy and Power BI preferrable)
Agile Project Management/change management beneficial.
Qualification & Experience Requirements:
Business related tertiary qualification
Demonstrated knowledge of Merchandise Planning/Demand Planning
Strong financial acumen and Business Analytics - Experience working with large data and analytics
Prior allocation/ demand planning experience preferred Analytical, organizational, and communication skills
Strong understanding of resource utilization and management
Prior merchandising application and process mapping/ documentation experience
Diversity, Inclusion & Belonging at KMD Brands
At KMD Brands, we believe that diversity makes us stronger. We’re committed to building an inclusive workplace where everyone feels valued, respected, and empowered to be themselves.
We celebrate the unique backgrounds, experiences, and perspectives of our people — across age, gender, identity, race, ****** orientation, ethnicity, and physical and mental ability. We know that when our team reflects the communities we serve, we create better outcomes for everyone.
We proudly acknowledge and pay respect to Tangata Whenua, the Indigenous Nations, First Peoples, and Custodians of the lands and waterways on which our brand head offices reside in Aotearoa New Zealand, Australia and the United States. Their enduring connection to land, waters, and culture continues to inspire and guide us.
APPLY HERE - Join us in shaping a workplace where everyone belongs.
Review of applications will begin immediately and will continue until the position is filled.
Kathmandu is a leading global outdoor brand whose journey began in Aotearoa, New Zealand in 1987. We believe out there is where we thrive. It liberates, challenges, and inspires us. Our gear is built to empower, so more people can embrace adventure. It’s tested in New Zealand’s wildest conditions — because if it performs here, it can handle anywhere. As a proud certified B Corp, we prioritise people and planet in everything we do — out of respect for the natural world that inspires us. Our pioneering approach to sustainable innovation ensures every product is built to perform and made with a lighter impact on the environment.
We've been out there for almost 40 years living our best lives. Now you can too. Join us on our mission to improve the wellbeing of the world through the great outdoors.
A little bit about the role…
We’re looking for a Merchandise Demand Planner/ Projects SME to join our team in a 12-month fixed term opportunity. As a Merchandise/demand planner you will manage the planning and forecasting function for your portfolio across all channels. You will partner in developing the strategy for your portfolio and execute effectively to maximise sales, profit and inventory. You will support the development of forward plans and OTB. As a project SME you will support the development and implementation of merchandise systems (demand & replenishment) and processes, that enable us to elevate our execution and effective stock management.
Own the end to end planning cycle from budget and hindsight reviews through to assortment planning, segmentation, forecasting and merchandise plan development.
Analyse in season performance, deliver trade insights and recommendations, and manage demand to OTB including order recommendations, size analysis and delivery optimisation.
Monitor and interpret performance across all channels (online, wholesale, corporate, retail) and recommend stock management strategies, ensuring alignment with allocation and buying teams.
Manage phase in/phaseout processes, clearance transitions and markdown cycles to maximise sell through and ensure efficient exit of obsolete inventory.
Support the implementation of Just Enough modules, document processes, complete UAT, and contribute to ongoing system embedment and continuous improvement.
Collaborate closely with buyers, allocators, purchasing, product teams, regional managers, digital partners and DC teams to ensure aligned objectives and smooth execution.
You’ll thrive in this role if you are:
A demonstrated tenacity, passion and knowledge for Merchandise and Inventory management, and analysis
Initiative & pro-activity
Excellent communications/ stakeholder management skills, both verbal and written including the ability to present insights and financials at all levels of the business
Understanding of Project Management methodology and systems implementation
Merchandise Financial Planning
Demand/Supply Planning
Strong financial acumen and analytical skills
Ability to multi-task, prioritise
Training and Documentation – ability to influence and lead a successful project
High proficiency in Microsoft 365 and BI tools (Microstrategy and Power BI preferrable)
Agile Project Management/change management beneficial.
Qualification & Experience Requirements:
Business related tertiary qualification
Demonstrated knowledge of Merchandise Planning/Demand Planning
Strong financial acumen and Business Analytics - Experience working with large data and analytics
Prior allocation/ demand planning experience preferred Analytical, organizational, and communication skills
Strong understanding of resource utilization and management
Prior merchandising application and process mapping/ documentation experience
Diversity, Inclusion & Belonging at KMD Brands
At KMD Brands, we believe that diversity makes us stronger. We’re committed to building an inclusive workplace where everyone feels valued, respected, and empowered to be themselves.
We celebrate the unique backgrounds, experiences, and perspectives of our people — across age, gender, identity, race, ****** orientation, ethnicity, and physical and mental ability. We know that when our team reflects the communities we serve, we create better outcomes for everyone.
We proudly acknowledge and pay respect to Tangata Whenua, the Indigenous Nations, First Peoples, and Custodians of the lands and waterways on which our brand head offices reside in Aotearoa New Zealand, Australia and the United States. Their enduring connection to land, waters, and culture continues to inspire and guide us.
APPLY HERE - Join us in shaping a workplace where everyone belongs.
Review of applications will begin immediately and will continue until the position is filled.
💡 Quick Summary
Seeking a career-building opportunity? The Kathmandu: Merchandise Planner - Fixed Term 12 Month Contract position is now open for candidates interested in the Retail & Wholesale sector. This role in South Melbourne offers a professional environment and growth potential.
Requirement Snapshot: Candidates should possess basic communication skills, a proactive attitude, and the ability to work in a team. Experience in Retail & Wholesale is a plus.
