Project Manager: Planning (Longterm Contract) at Ackermans

PURPOSE OF POSITION:

• The Project Manager: Planning supports the successful implementation of retail planning initiatives by overseeing system-related projects from inception to delivery. Reporting to the Project Owner, this role ensures deployments, process improvements, and training initiatives are executed efficiently, aligned with organisational objectives, and delivered in close collaboration with third-party partners and internal stakeholders.

KEY RESPONSIBILITIES:

• Lead Planning department systems projects from inception to implementation.
• Oversee system deployments, process improvements, and training initiatives.
• Drive and support change management to ensure smooth adoption of new systems and processes.
• Coordinate closely with third-party partners and the internal systems team to ensure successful delivery.
• Monitor project progress, manage risks, and ensure timely completion of deliverables.
• Act as the central point of accountability for planning project outcomes, ensuring alignment with organizational objectives.
• Foster collaboration across departments and maintain strong stakeholder engagement.

JOB RELATED KNOWLEDGE AND SKILLS REQUIRED:

Knowledge

• Strong understanding of PM methodologies.
• Knowledge of enterprise systems, integration processes, and deployment best practices.
• Familiarity with continuous improvement frameworks.
• Expertise in guiding teams through organisational change, including adoption strategies and stakeholder communication.
• Understanding of departmental workflows, resource allocation, and strategic planning.
• Ability to identify, assess, and mitigate risks across projects

​​​​​​​​​​​​​​Skills:

• Ability to inspire, guide, and coordinate cross-functional teams.
• Strong communication skills to manage relationships with internal teams, third-party vendors, and executives.
• Skilled at working with systems teams and external partners to ensure smooth project delivery.
• Critical thinking and problem-solving to address challenges and optimise processes.
• Clear, professional written and verbal communication for reports, presentations, and training.
• Flexibility to manage multiple projects and adjust to evolving priorities.
• Familiarity with project management tools (e.g., MS Project, Jira, Trello) and data analysis software.

QUALIFICATIONS:

• A relevant Business/Commercial/Retail, Degree or Diploma

EXPERIENCE:

• Proven experience of 5-10 years in a retail planning management capacity, of which 3-5 years should be at a senior level.

CLOSING DATE: 16 March 2026