Merchandise Planner

Merchandise Planner Position Overview

The Merchandise Planner plays a strategic role in driving sales, optimizing inventory, and enhancing customer satisfaction through data-driven planning and forecasting. This role requires a deep understanding of niche markets, seasonal trends, and customer preferences to ensure the right products are available at the right time and place.

• Planning & Forecasting
  • Develop and maintain merchandise financial plans by category, season, and store/channel
  • Forecast sales, margin, and inventory targets based on historical data and market trends
  • Collaborate with buying teams to build assortments that align with brand strategy and customer demand
• Inventory & Allocation
  • Monitor inventory levels and recommend replenishment strategies to minimize stockouts and overstocks
  • Partner with allocation teams to ensure optimal product distribution across stores and channels
  • Identify slow-moving items and propose markdowns, promotions, or reallocation strategies
• Financial Analysis
  • Analyze performance metrics including sell‑through, turn, margin, and ROI
  • Prepare weekly/monthly business reviews and present insights to cross‑functional teams
  • Support pricing and promotional strategies to maximize profitability
• Cross‑Functional Collaboration
  • Work closely with merchandising, marketing, supply chain, and store operations teams
  • Provide planning input for product launches, seasonal campaigns, and store openings
  • Communicate inventory risks and opportunities to leadership

• Analytical Thinking: Strong ability to interpret data and forecast trends
• Retail Acumen: Deep understanding of specialty retail dynamics and customer behavior
• Communication: Clear and collaborative communication across departments
• Technical Proficiency: Advanced Excel skills; experience with planning tools (e.g., JDA, SAP, Oracle)
• Strategic Mindset: Ability to balance short‑term needs with long‑term business goals

• Bachelor’s degree in Business, Merchandising, Finance, or related field
• 3‑5 years of experience in merchandise planning, preferably in specialty retail
• Experience with omnichannel retail and inventory optimization tools is a plus

Petco Animal Supplies, Inc. is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, age, protected veteran status, or any other protected classification.