Associate, Inventory Planner

VANS EMEA is looking for an exceptional Associate, Inventory Planner to join our Marketplace Demand and Inventory Planning team based in Stabio, Switzerland.

Vans® is the original action sports footwear company, rooted in authenticity and creativity. Founded in 1966, we have thrived on a legacy of impacting our greater community through four pillars: action sports, music, art and street culture.

By joining our family, you will be immersed in an environment of incredibly supportive and collaborative people. We work hard across a multitude of initiatives to bring the Van Doren Spirit to life. We live for what we do.

Let’s Talk about the Role

You, as Associate Planner, will be responsible for building sound and accurate buy forecast, planning purchases balancing supply to demand in such a way that maximizes product availability while keeping inventory levels under control and liaising with other departments to continuously support the business.

How You Will Make a Difference

Inventory Forecasting and Planning

• Plan purchases based on forecast, current inventory levels, open purchase orders and production constraints ensuring inventory KPIs under control (on-time delivery, stock disruption and over stock).
• Analyze sales history, sales/market input and current orderbook to build an accurate buy forecast.
• Coordinate global deadlines and share buy information with global supply planning teams and all sourcing offices.
• Partner with sales teams to maximize business opportunities.
• Analyze shortage and excess inventory positions to order to guarantee maximum efficiency.
• Manage the required system settings (SAP, MRP, INFOR).
• Liaise with global supply planning and other region planning counterparts on monthly buy confirmation process, define shipments mode and evaluate best decision to ensure business profitability (duties, surcharges, top up, drops).
• Participate in weekly/monthly calls with the sourcing organization in Asia on outstanding issues and process improvements opportunities.
• Manage purchase orders creation coordinating product acquisition team within buy cycle confirmation (from dummy to regular POs).
• Support Inventory operations team by monitoring and tracking sales orders coverage.

Reporting and Analysis

• Conduct qualitative & quantitative analysis to highlight trends, opportunities, and performance relative to respective product collection, maximizing seasonal efficiency.
• Support brand order coverage and inventory level analysis.
• Responsible to track buy plan accuracy for assigned production collection; perform seasonal root cause analysis to identify learnings and apply to future seasons.
• Work with Global supply planning and other region counterparts on the definition of the ideal buy calendar to be applied for a season, maximizing phasing and opportunities for the region.
• Responsible for KPIs tracking and analysis in support of all needed corrective actions.

In order to effectively manage these deliverables, you need:

• At least 1 year of experience with Forecasting and Planning activities.
• Very good communication skills in English.
• Strong knowledge of Excel; experience in a Microsoft Windows environment.
• Experience using AI tools (e.g., generative AI solutions) to improve efficiency, collaboration, and business outcomes.
• Passion for working with numbers, analytical mindset.
• Ability to work under pressure whilst maintaining accuracy and efficiency while respecting deadlines.

A formal education and subsequent University Bachelor or Master’s degree in Economics, Management are required.

What’s in it For You

We’re in the business of unleashing human potential, driven by the ideas, energy and commitment of our people. That’s why we offer comprehensive benefits that encourage mental, physical and financial well-being for all VF associates. When it comes to benefits, we’re the total package.

• A supportive feedback-based culture where respect and integrity guide us in what we do

• An inclusive international environment where people of diverse backgrounds, lifestyles and nationalities love working together

• Be part of an iconic lifestyle brand in a multi brand, multi countries organization

• On site gym offering health and well-being initiatives

• A discount card with 50% on all VF brands

• Break out areas offering complimentary hot drinks

Free to Be, Inclusion & Diversity

As an equal opportunity employer, we strive to foster a culture of belonging based on respect, connection, openness and authenticity. We are committed to building and maintaining a workplace that celebrates the diversity of our associates, allowing them to bring their authentic selves to work every day.

If you like what you have read and want to join our team, then we would like to hear from you!