Category Planning Manager Sports Outdoor - maternity cover (all genders)

Role: As a Category Planning Manager Sports Outdoor (maternity cover), you are accountable for the Sports Outdoor business segment, defining financial KPI plans and ensuring targets are met, planning and managing inventory to optimise sales and profitability. Responsibilities: - Lead end‑to‑end planning cycle and define financial KPI plan. - Develop, implement and monitor inventory strategies to maintain optimal stock levels and maximise sales while minimising excess stock (monthly OTB cycle). - Analyse historical sales data and market trends to produce accurate sales forecasts. - Prepare detailed reports and insights to support decision‑making. - Collaborate with buying, marketing and operations teams to execute merchandise assortments aligned with market trends and customer preferences. - Communicate with external stakeholders to align on strategic goals. - Identify and implement process improvements to increase efficiency and accuracy in merchandise planning. - Leverage technology and tools to streamline planning processes and data analysis. Qualifications: - Bachelor’s degree in Business or equivalent experience. - Minimum 3 years merchandising/planning experience, preferably in e‑commerce, with end‑to‑end ownership of at least one planning cycle. - Strong analytical mindset, expert in Excel and planning software, proficient with Google Suite. - Excellent English communication and negotiation skills. - Structured, proactive, able to thrive in a fast‑paced, dynamic environment. - Leadership qualities: ability to guide and support team members. What We Offer: - Employee shares program. - 40 % discount on Zalando fashion and beauty products, 30 % off Zalando Lounge, plus external partner discounts. - Hybrid working model with up to 60 % remote work. - Option to work from abroad up to 30 days per year. - 27 days vacation (starting) and 2 paid volunteering days. - Relocation assistance, family services, health and wellbeing options (Gympass, mental health support). - Development opportunities through training platform and bi‑annual peer‑to‑peer review.