Demand Planning jobs in Sydney NSW

Akubra is an iconic Australian hat manufacturer with a heritage spanning nearly 150 years. Built on quality craftsmanship and a spirit of adventure, our hats are synonymous with Australian culture and identity. As we continue to grow, we are looking for a sharp and organised planning professional to help us get the right product to the right place at the right time.

About the role

Based in Sydney and reporting to the Chief Commercial Officer, this role sits at the heart of how Akubra plans and moves product across the business. You will be responsible for demand forecasting, inventory optimisation and product lifecycle management across retail, wholesale and DTC channels, with a focus on ensuring the right stock is in the right place at the right time. It is a hands-on, high-ownership role that suits someone who is analytically minded, comfortable with ambiguity and keen to make a tangible impact within a small and collaborative team. Responsibilities of the role include:

Demand Planning and Inventory Optimisation:

• Build and maintain demand forecasts across all product categories including felt, straw and accessories.
• Analyse sales trends, seasonality and channel performance to translate forecasts into actionable procurement and production plans.
• Actively manage and rebalance inventory across retail, wholesale and DTC channels to optimise sell-through and availability.
• Identify stock risks and opportunities and take proactive steps to improve outcomes.

Supply and Procurement Coordination:

• Manage ordering of components, raw materials and finished goods with suppliers.
• Oversee procurement of supporting materials including packaging, trims and marketing assets.
• Work closely with manufacturing and supply partners to align timelines and maintain appropriate stock levels.

Product Lifecycle and New Product Introduction:

• Own and maintain the critical path for all product introductions and exits.
• Act as the operational lead for new products entering the business, ensuring data, assets and timelines are aligned ahead of launch.
• Coordinate cross-functional inputs across product, marketing, retail, wholesale and operations to support go-to-market readiness.
• Manage phase-in and phase-out of products to maximise sell-through and minimise risk.

Cross-Functional Communication:

• Act as a central connector across product, supply chain, retail, wholesale and marketing teams.
• Clearly communicate timelines, risks and updates to ensure alignment between planning, production and commercial teams.

About you

• Demonstrated experience (2-5 years) in demand planning, supply chain, merchandising or product coordination and analysis.
• Strong Excel and data analysis skills, with Power BI or similar tools a bonus.
• Experience managing supplier orders and inventory levels across multiple channels.
• Understanding of retail product lifecycle and stock flow preferred.
• Background in apparel, accessories or consumer goods an advantage.
• Highly organised with strong attention to detail and the ability to manage multiple priorities simultaneously.
• Commercially minded, proactive and solutions-oriented.

What We Offer

• One of Australia's most iconic brands synonymous with Australian culture and identity.
• A fast-paced, collaborative environment where your work directly shapes business outcomes.
• Competitive remuneration package.
• Reporting directly to the Chief Commercial Officer with genuine exposure across the business.
• Career development opportunities within an iconic Australian heritage brand.

Applicants must be Australian residents with full working rights.

Akubra is an equal opportunity employer committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees.