Inventory Planner

Inventory PlannerThe Inventory Management team is responsible for maintaining inventory levels across the fleet and in the distribution center. They handle all sales and margin forecasting and use that information to project future inventory needs. Based on these forecasts, the team places new orders and reorders to ensure the right products are available for the customer.As an Inventory Planner, you will manage a department through the entire product life cycle—from pre-season planning and investment reviews to monthly open-to-buy forecasting and inventory management. You will use forecasting tools to optimize inventory flow, drive margin, and support top-line sales, while partnering cross-functionally with Merchants, Allocation, Ecommerce, and Distribution to identify opportunities and maintain inventory targets. This role is within a high-visibility category and offers strong exposure to leadership.This role requires being onsite in our office Monday through Thursday, and remote option on Friday.Responsibilities:Plan and manage a department through the entire product life cycle:Create pre-season plansPresent plans at investment reviewManage monthly open to buy forecasts to drive sales and marginManage inventory levels and turn targetsForecast and review buys and replenishment by sku to maintain optimum inventory flowUtilize the new planning software to forecast sales and manage replenishmentPartner with the Inventory Distribution team to develop allocation strategies and with E-commerce team on site merchandising opportunitiesIdentify potential inventory liabilities and take action to maintain inventory targetsKey in this role:Build a team relationship with Merchant counterparts and partner to develop financial merchandise plans by departmentIdentify opportunities to drive the top lineThe ability to analyze the business day to day through reading and reacting to trends, and communicate actions to takeDevelop and provide appropriate business analysis to influence purchases and assortment strategiesBe an integral partner with Visual, Store Operations, Sourcing, and the Distributions CentersAct like an owner, being the expert on everything relating to the sales, inventory and margin of your departmentCriteria:Minimum 2 years planning and distribution experienceComputer skills -- Excel, Word, Microsoft Outlook, MS Access.Strong business acumen, financial analysis, and technical skillsAbility to work in a fast paced entrepreneurial environmentAbility to prioritize and schedule work in a deadline driven environment.Superior written, communication, presentation, and listening skillsCompetencies:DRIVE FOR RESULTS: Hit sales/inventory targets.CREATE SOLUTIONS: Use data to optimize inventory.OWN IT: Take ownership of categories managed.Our Culture & Values We believe that taking care of our people is vital to our success, and we strive to offer equitable and transparent practices for all. We prioritize connection, growth, and wellbeing. People First Putting People First means investing in overall well-being and opportunities to grow and advance within the organization. Depending on the position and location, here are a few highlights of what benefits may be available: Benefits - A generous discount on all WSI brands - A 401(k) plan and other investment opportunities - Paid vacations, holidays, and time off to volunteer - Health benefits, dental and vision insurance, including same-sex domestic partner benefits - Tax-free commuter benefits - A wellness program that supports your physical, financial and emotional health Continued Learning - In-person and online learning opportunities through WSI University - Cross-brand and cross-function career opportunities - Resources for self-development - Advisor (Mentor) program - Career development workshops, learning programs, and speaker series WSI will not now or in the future commence an immigration case or "sponsor" an individual for this position (for example, H-1B or other employment-based immigration).This role is not eligible for relocation assistance.Williams-Sonoma, Inc. is an Equal Opportunity Employer. Williams-Sonoma, Inc. will consider for employment qualified applicants with criminal histories in a manner consistent with the requirements of the San Francisco Fair Chance Ordinance, or other applicable state or local laws and ordinances.The expected starting pay range for this position is $75,000-$85,000. Applicable pay ranges may differ across markets. Actual pay will be determined based on experience and other job-related factors permitted by law. In addition to competitive pay, compensation may include a variety of other components like benefits, paid time off, merit, and bonus opportunities.