Merchandise Planner

Our client, a fast-growing and highly collaborative retail organization, is looking for a Merchandise Planner to drive inventory strategy and financial performance within a key product category. This individual will play a critical role in maximizing sales growth and profitability through data-driven forecasting, inventory optimization, and close partnership with Merchandising.

This is an opportunity to own end-to-end category planning while influencing assortment strategy and long-term business performance.

• Lead end-to-end inventory strategy for assigned product categories, including new product buys, replenishment, and end-of-life markdown optimization
• Develop and execute pre-season financial plans aligned with departmental and company targets
• Forecast sales and inventory at the category level in collaboration with Merchandising partners
• Manage multi-channel forecasting and inventory allocation strategies
• Execute purchase order placements, modifications, and cancellations
• Analyze historical sales data, market trends, and performance metrics to inform growth strategies
• Provide actionable insights and financial analysis to influence future assortment and purchasing decisions
• Manage Open-to-Buy (OTB) and ensure inventory levels align with financial goals
• Oversee category planning timelines, ensuring alignment with production lead times and key milestones
• Build strong cross-functional partnerships internally and with external vendors
• Drive item-level planning, forecasting, and allocation across channels
• Contribute to team-wide process improvements and operational excellence initiatives

• 3+ years of experience in merchandise planning, allocation, buying, or related field
• Bachelor’s degree preferred (Business, Finance, Merchandising, or related discipline)
• Intermediate to advanced Excel skills (pivot tables, formulas, financial analysis, reporting)
• Experience with Google Suite and forecasting/planning systems
• Strong financial and analytical acumen with a deep understanding of retail metrics (sales, turn, receipts, OTB)
• Ability to evaluate data, synthesize insights, and drive strategic decisions
• Strong presentation and communication skills
• Highly organized with exceptional attention to detail
• Proven ability to manage multiple priorities in a fast-paced environment
• Collaborative mindset with a proactive, solution-oriented approach