Merchandise Planner

Compensation & Start Date Placement Type: N/A Salary: $31.80-35.33 Hourly (W2, hourly, with benefits) Start Date: May 26, 2026 Overview We are seeking a Merchandise Planner II to support end‑to‑end planning and forecasting for a dynamic retail business within a globally recognized leader in the footwear and apparel industry. This role is responsible for driving financial and inventory plans that optimize profitability, align to consumer demand, and support overall business objectives. Location & Schedule On‑site with work‑from‑home Fridays. Duration Approximately 12‑month contract. Experience Level 2–4+ years of experience in merchandise planning, assortment planning, or retail financial planning. Bachelor's degree strongly preferred or equivalent experience. What You’ll Do Develop seasonal and monthly merchandise plans including sales, margin, and inventory forecasts. Manage open‑to‑buy (OTB) and support in‑season optimization through ongoing analysis and adjustments. Analyze weekly business performance and identify risks and opportunities to inform decision‑making. Partner cross‑functionally with merchandising, planning, marketing, and other key teams to align on strategy and execution. Support inventory planning and management across the product lifecycle. Prepare and present financial insights and planning recommendations to stakeholders. Contribute to a rolling forecast process to ensure plans remain aligned with business performance and goals. What You Bring Strong expertise in Excel and data analysis. Solid understanding of retail math, forecasting, and inventory management. Experience managing OTB and merchandise financial plans. Ability to work effectively in cross‑functional, matrixed environments. Strong communication skills and ability to influence stakeholders. Comfortable working in fast‑paced, ambiguous environments. Preferred Qualifications Experience presenting to senior leadership. Strong stakeholder management and cross‑functional collaboration skills. Background in apparel, footwear, or large‑scale retail environments. Experience with financial planning or business analysis. Best Fit With This Role Candidates who are analytical, detail‑oriented, and collaborative, with a strong understanding of retail planning fundamentals. You are comfortable working with data, able to translate insights into action, and can effectively partner across teams to drive business performance. Why Apply High‑impact role influencing product strategy. Exposure to senior leadership. Strong cross‑functional visibility. Opportunity to build advanced planning skills. Employee Benefits Our eligible talent get access to amazing benefits like subsidized health, vision, and dental plans, paid sick leave, and retirement plans with a match. We also offer free online training through Aquent Gymnasium. Equal Opportunity Employer Aquent is an equal‑opportunity employer. We evaluate qualified applicants without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, veteran status, and other legally protected characteristics. We're about creating an inclusive environment—one where different backgrounds, experiences, and perspectives are valued, and everyone can contribute, grow their careers, and thrive. #J-18808-Ljbffr