DTC Planner & Buyer (SWIB EMEA)

Smartwool & icebreaker are looking for an exceptional DTC Planner & Buyer to join our EMEA DTC team based in Stabio, Switzerland.

Driven by the belief that nature has the answers, we provide natural performance alternatives to synthetic-based apparel, to create a healthier and more sustainable future for our species and the planet. We're passionate about connecting people to natural alternatives.

We continue to launch campaigns and activities to enable people to better understand how their clothes are made, what they are made of and how moving to natural alternatives can make a positive impact. The constant pursuit of better is what drives our progress. We're not perfect, but we're looking for solutions that make a positive difference.

Let’s Talk about the Role

You as DTC Planner & Buyer will play a key role in driving commercial success across our owned retail and digital channels. This role combines strategic assortment planning, inventory management, and buying responsibilities to ensure the right product is available at the right time, in the right place, for our consumers.

You will own the open-to-buy (OTB) planning process, ensuring alignment with the financial plan, retail expansion roadmap, and performance of collections, categories, and key items. You will forecast sales and inventory needs based on consumer behaviour, promotional plans, and product lifecycle, and collaborate closely with cross-functional teams to optimize product availability and maximize revenue.

How You Will Make a Difference

You will achieve this by:

Building seasonal assortments aligned with brand vision, consumer needs, and channel strategy

Leading the OTB planning process in line with financial targets, store openings, and product performance

Forecasting sales and inventory needs across owned B&M stores and digital channels based on historical data, trends, and commercial input

Planning stock levels and product flow to support availability, sell-through, and margin targets

Supporting the buying process from line selection to order placement and lifecycle management

Collaborating with marketing, retail operations, and eCommerce teams to align product launches and promotional strategies

Monitoring performance against plan and recommending adjustments to maximize sales and minimize markdowns

Analysing sell-through rates, conversion, and store performance to inform future planning

Contributing to post-season hindsight and future planning cycles

Partnering with global and regional teams to influence product development and line architecture

Skills for Success

You should be a commercially minded, consumer-focused planner and buyer with:

4–6 years of experience in merchandise planning, buying, or a hybrid commercial role

Strong understanding of DTC retail, especially B&M; digital experience is a plus

Proven experience managing OTB and aligning inventory investments with financial and strategic goals

Analytical mindset with the ability to turn data into actionable insights

Proficiency in planning tools and Excel; experience with SAP, or similar systems preferred

Excellent communication and collaboration skills

Passion for natural performance apparel and omnichannel retail

A formal education and subsequent University Bachelor or Master’s degree in Business, Merchandising, or related fields are nice to have, but we are most interested in your total experience and professional achievements.

About VF

VF is a global apparel company connecting people to the lifestyles they cherish through our family of iconic brands. At the heart of our journey lies our purpose: We power movements of sustainable and active lifestyles for the betterment of people and our planet. This is our purpose. It’s the reason we come to work every day. Our purpose unites us and leads us to pursue our goals, together. This is our calling. Learn more at vfc.com

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!

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