VISHAL ALEX
Sydney
Summary
Results-driven Merchandise & Supply Planning professional with expertise in demand forecasting, inventory optimization, and Open-to-Buy (OTB) planning. Skilled in data-driven decision making, cross-functional collaboration, and strategic assortment planning to maximize sales, margin, and operational efficiency. Proven ability to translate analytics into actionable business strategies that drive profitability and growth.
Overview
14
14
years of professional experience
Work History
Merchandise Planning Manager
Max Retail
Dubai
08.2024 - 02.2026
- Led pre-season and in-season merchandise planning to optimize inventory levels and improve product availability.
- Developed demand forecasts and collaborated with cross-functional teams to align merchandising plans.
- Managed Open-to-Buy (OTB) budgets to achieve sales, margin, and inventory targets.
- Analyzed SKU-level performance, sell-through, and inventory metrics to drive business decisions.
- Optimized merchandise assortment using historical sales data and market trends.
- Improved gross margin through effective markdown and pricing strategies.
- Conducted business reviews and provided data-driven recommendations to stakeholders.
- Monitored competitor activity and market trends to adjust merchandise strategies
Supply Planning Manager
Max Retail
Dubai
04.2014 - 07.2024
- Led demand forecasting and supply planning to ensure optimal inventory levels across retail stores and e-commerce channels
- Analyzed sales trends, stock turn, and inventory coverage to improve product availability and reduce excess inventory
- Conducted weekly and in-season business reviews, comparing actual vs. forecast and implementing corrective actions
- Managed Open-to-Buy (OTB) planning and financial budgets to achieve sales, margin, and inventory targets
- Developed store-specific assortment and replenishment strategies based on customer demand, regional trends, and profitability
- Partnered with buying, merchandising, and retail operations teams to align inventory plans with business objectives
- Managed inventory allocation, markdown planning, and promotional support for seasonal and peak trading periods
- Analyzed SKU-level performance and space productivity to optimize assortment and maximize sales
- Led inventory optimization and lean stock initiatives to improve working capital and stock efficiency
- Monitored inventory health, KPIs, and sales projections through dashboards and reporting tools
- Ensured SOP compliance for inventory movement from distribution centers to stores
- Managed and mentored a team of planners, setting performance goals and improving team productivity
- Facilitated training sessions for team members on planning tools and methodologies, enhancing overall capability.
- Improved project efficiency by streamlining planning processes and implementing effective communication strategies.
Accountant
Ayurlakshmi Funds
Kerala
05.2012 - 02.2014
- Performed accounting functions including financial analysis, record maintenance, reconciliation, and verification of transactions
- Managed Accounts Receivable (AR) and Accounts Payable (AP) processes and daily accounting entries
- Prepared salary vouchers and bank transfer letters for payroll processing
- Conducted vouching and cross-checking of sales and purchase transactions to ensure accuracy and compliance
- Assisted in discount and pricing analysis, ensuring profitability while supporting sales strategies
- Supported financial planning and policy-making initiatives by collaborating with department managers
- Provided financial insights to support decision-making and long-term company planning
Education
MBA - Finance And Marketing
Acharya Institute of Management Studies
India04-2012
BBM - Business Management
Nehru Arts And Science College
India03-2010
Skills
- Microsoft Excel proficiency
- Sales planning
- Demand forecasting
- Supply chain coordination
- Pricing strategy
- Promotional planning
- Stock replenishment
- Space planning
- Teamwork and collaboration
- Adaptability and flexibility
Languages
English
Hindi
Malayalam
Tamil
Timeline
Merchandise Planning Manager
Max Retail
08.2024 - 02.2026
Supply Planning Manager
Max Retail
04.2014 - 07.2024
Accountant
Ayurlakshmi Funds
05.2012 - 02.2014
MBA - Finance And Marketing
Acharya Institute of Management Studies
BBM - Business Management
Nehru Arts And Science College