Merchandise Planner

CITITRENDS is seeking a data-driven, strategic Merchandise Planner who thrives in a fast-paced retail environment and knows how to turn insights into action. This role is critical to driving business performance-owning inventory strategy, influencing buying decisions, and ensuring the right productis in the right place at the right time.What You'll Do* Own and manage inventory plans across multiple categories to support sales, margin, and turnover goals* Partner closely with Buyers to develop and execute open-to-buy (OTB) strategies* Analyze sales trends, historical data, and customer behavior to forecast demand and guide assortment decisions* Monitor product performance and proactively adjust plans to maximize opportunities and mitigate risk* Optimize inventory flow-balancing stock levels to reduce markdowns, minimize stockouts, and drive profitability* Deliver clear, actionable reporting on key business metrics (sales, margin, inventory productivity)* Present insights and recommendations to leadership to influence business decisions* Operate with urgency and accountability in a high-volume, results-driven environmentWhat Sets This Role Apart* Direct impact on business performance and inventory strategy* High visibility with cross-functional leadership teams* A fast-moving environment where decisions matter and execution is key* Opportunity to influence both planning and buying outcomesWhat You Bring* 3+ years of experience in merchandise planning, retail planning, or inventory management* Strong analytical mindset with advanced Excel skills (pivot tables, lookups, data modeling)* Ability to translate data into clear business insights and actions* Experience with planning or inventory systems (preferred)* Strong partnership skills-able to collaborate effectively with Buyers and cross-functional teams* Excellent communication and presentation skills* Highly organized with the ability to manage multiple priorities in a fast-paced environment* Solid understanding of retail metrics including sales, margin, and inventory turnoverEducation* Bachelor's degree in Business, Merchandising, Supply Chain, or a related field preferredAdditional Requirements* Ability to travel up to 25% as needed* Ability to work in a fast-paced, deadline-driven environmentEqual Opportunity EmployerCITITRENDS is an equal opportunity employer. We are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees and applicants and do not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, disability, veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity, or any other protected characteristic under applicable law.