Merchandise Planner

Merchandise PlannerThe Merchandise Planner is responsible for developing and executing merchandise plans that maximize sales, margin, and inventory productivity across assigned brands or product categories. Working closely with Buying and Allocation teams, this role leverages data, forecasting, and business analysis to identify opportunities, mitigate risks, and support strategic merchandising decisions. The ideal candidate is analytical, collaborative, and skilled at translating business insights into actionable inventory and financial plans.ResponsibilitiesMerchandise Planning & ForecastingDevelop pre-season sales, inventory, and margin plans that align with overall business objectives and category strategiesBuild and maintain forecasts for sales, inventory, receipts, margin, and turnover based on historical performance and current business trendsManage Open-to-Buy (OTB) plans to maintain optimal inventory levels while supporting sales growth and profitabilityReforecast business performance regularly and adjust inventory strategies to respond to changing demand and market conditionsManage ladder plans and key item forecasts to maintain appropriate inventory levels throughout seasonal selling periodsBusiness Analysis & Financial ManagementAnalyze business performance to identify sales opportunities, inventory risks, and profitability trendsDevelop reporting and ad hoc analyses that support strategic planning and in-season business decisionsMonitor key retail metrics including sell-through, inventory turnover, margin, average unit retail (AUR), and stock productivityAnalyze size selling by market to optimize assortment and distribution strategiesPresent business performance, forecasts, and recommendations to merchandising leadershipCross-Functional PartnershipPartner closely with Buyers to develop seasonal merchandise strategies and category plansCollaborate with Allocation teams to ensure inventory is distributed effectively based on sales trends and business prioritiesIdentify emerging opportunities and risks at the store and category level, recommending appropriate actionsSupport cross-functional initiatives that improve merchandising performance and operational efficiencyProject Support & Continuous ImprovementParticipate in special projects that improve planning processes and business performanceShare knowledge and best practices with teammates while contributing to a collaborative team environmentRecommend process improvements based on data analysis and business trendsCommunicate business insights and recommendations clearly to stakeholders across the organizationRequiredHigh school diploma or equivalent required; Bachelor's degree preferred3+ years of retail merchandise planning experienceStrong understanding of retail planning principles, inventory management, and financial forecastingAdvanced proficiency in Microsoft Excel and experience using reporting and business intelligence toolsStrong knowledge of Open-to-Buy (OTB), sell-through, inventory turnover, margin, AUR, and other retail planning metricsStrong analytical, problem-solving, and organizational skillsExcellent communication and presentation skillsAbility to manage multiple priorities in a fast-paced retail environmentPreferredBachelor's degree in Business, Finance, Merchandising, Retail Management, or a related fieldExperience working with retail planning systems and business intelligence platformsFootwear, apparel, or specialty retail merchandising experienceExperience supporting seasonal planning, forecasting, and inventory optimization initiatives