Emirati Retail Planner – Marks & Spencer (UAE Nationals Only) Job Vacancy in UAE Dubai
Posted date [2025-03-28]
(ID: 34047)
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Established in the 1930s as a trading business, Al-Futtaim is one of the most progressive regional family business houses headquartered in Dubai, United Arab Emirates. |
Emirati Retail Planner – Marks & Spencer (UAE Nationals Only)
Shape your career in retail planning with one of the most recognized global brands. Al-Futtaim Group is looking for an ambitious Emirati National to join Marks & Spencer as a Retail Planner in Dubai. This is a unique opportunity to work with a global retail powerhouse and contribute to data-driven business planning and merchandising across the MENA region.
Job Location: Dubai, United Arab Emirates
Industry: Retail & Wholesale
Function: Planning & Merchandising
Salary: Negotiable
Gender: Any
Candidate Nationality: UAE Nationals Only
Candidate Current Location: UAE
What Does an Emirati Retail Planner Do?
As a Retail Planner, you will be responsible for developing and executing sales and OTB (Open-to-Buy) plans for Marks & Spencer across multiple markets and business units. This role focuses on forecasting, analyzing business trends, managing inventory budgets, and optimizing space allocation to drive commercial success.
What Are the Key Responsibilities?
- Lead annual business planning across markets and categories for the retail division
- Deliver accurate weekly WSSI (Weekly Sales, Stock & Intake) reports
- Monitor and control OTB spending by season, ensuring alignment with delivery schedules and sales plans
- Coordinate closely with finance, buying, and operations to track budgets and seasonal performance
- Manage space allocation by BU and store, based on product density and productivity metrics
- Plan markdowns and promotional pricing strategies in line with market performance
- Ensure system price updates and promotional approvals are submitted as per UAE requirements
- Track fulfilment, shop floor stock levels, and availability across categories
- Attend trade meetings and suggest data-driven actions to boost revenue
What Skills Are Needed for a Retail Planner in Dubai?
Education:
- Bachelor’s degree in Business, Finance, or a related discipline
Experience:
- At least 5 years’ experience in retail planning, forecasting, or merchandising
- Prior experience in fashion or FMCG retail preferred
Technical Skills:
- Proficiency in MS Excel and planning tools; SAP knowledge is a plus
- Strong numerical, analytical, and reporting skills
Other Requirements:
- Strong communication and organizational abilities
- Excellent command of English; Arabic is an advantage
- Ability to handle complex data and work in a fast-paced environment
- Must be a UAE National
What Benefits Come with This Position?
- Exposure to one of the world’s leading retail brands – Marks & Spencer
- Career development opportunities within Al-Futtaim’s diverse group structure
- Competitive salary and performance-based incentives
- A structured training and mentorship plan to support Emirati talent
About the company
Al-Futtaim Group is a leading private business group based in Dubai, with operations in more than 20 countries and over 35,000 employees. Through its diversified operations in automotive, real estate, retail, financial services, and healthcare, Al-Futtaim partners with more than 200 of the world’s top brands. The Group is committed to innovation, excellence, and nurturing Emirati talent through sustainable career pathways.
If you are an ambitious UAE National ready to make a mark in retail planning, apply today and be part of a legacy of excellence.
Shape your career in retail planning with one of the most recognized global brands. Al-Futtaim Group is looking for an ambitious Emirati National to join Marks & Spencer as a Retail Planner in Dubai. This is a unique opportunity to work with a global retail powerhouse and contribute to data-driven business planning and merchandising across the MENA region.
Job Location: Dubai, United Arab Emirates
Industry: Retail & Wholesale
Function: Planning & Merchandising
Salary: Negotiable
Gender: Any
Candidate Nationality: UAE Nationals Only
Candidate Current Location: UAE
What Does an Emirati Retail Planner Do?
As a Retail Planner, you will be responsible for developing and executing sales and OTB (Open-to-Buy) plans for Marks & Spencer across multiple markets and business units. This role focuses on forecasting, analyzing business trends, managing inventory budgets, and optimizing space allocation to drive commercial success.
What Are the Key Responsibilities?
- Lead annual business planning across markets and categories for the retail division
- Deliver accurate weekly WSSI (Weekly Sales, Stock & Intake) reports
- Monitor and control OTB spending by season, ensuring alignment with delivery schedules and sales plans
- Coordinate closely with finance, buying, and operations to track budgets and seasonal performance
- Manage space allocation by BU and store, based on product density and productivity metrics
- Plan markdowns and promotional pricing strategies in line with market performance
- Ensure system price updates and promotional approvals are submitted as per UAE requirements
- Track fulfilment, shop floor stock levels, and availability across categories
- Attend trade meetings and suggest data-driven actions to boost revenue
What Skills Are Needed for a Retail Planner in Dubai?
Education:
- Bachelor’s degree in Business, Finance, or a related discipline
Experience:
- At least 5 years’ experience in retail planning, forecasting, or merchandising
- Prior experience in fashion or FMCG retail preferred
Technical Skills:
- Proficiency in MS Excel and planning tools; SAP knowledge is a plus
- Strong numerical, analytical, and reporting skills
Other Requirements:
- Strong communication and organizational abilities
- Excellent command of English; Arabic is an advantage
- Ability to handle complex data and work in a fast-paced environment
- Must be a UAE National
What Benefits Come with This Position?
- Exposure to one of the world’s leading retail brands – Marks & Spencer
- Career development opportunities within Al-Futtaim’s diverse group structure
- Competitive salary and performance-based incentives
- A structured training and mentorship plan to support Emirati talent
About the company
Al-Futtaim Group is a leading private business group based in Dubai, with operations in more than 20 countries and over 35,000 employees. Through its diversified operations in automotive, real estate, retail, financial services, and healthcare, Al-Futtaim partners with more than 200 of the world’s top brands. The Group is committed to innovation, excellence, and nurturing Emirati talent through sustainable career pathways.
If you are an ambitious UAE National ready to make a mark in retail planning, apply today and be part of a legacy of excellence.
