Senior Category Planner

Job Summary

The Senior Planner is a strategic leader responsible for guiding the financial success of select merchandise categories. Serving as a trusted financial partner and business consultant to Category Managers, this role is a key driver of long-term strategy and profitability. The Senior Planner leverages deep analytical expertise and advanced financial modeling to influence and inform crucial business decisions, ensuring alignment with overarching company objectives and financial targets.

Sr. Planner also acts as the primary financial liaison for category teams, ensuring seamless communication and alignment with cross‑functional partners. This role requires a high degree of autonomy, a proactive approach to problem‑solving, and a proven ability to lead and mentor others.

• Lead Strategic Financial Planning:
  Take the lead in developing and executing comprehensive annual and multi‑year financial plans for assigned categories. Lead Planners to collaborate with Category Managers and other senior leaders across departments like Demand Chain, Marketing, and Finance to ensure plans are robust, achievable, and aligned with company‑wide goals.
• Spearhead Performance Analysis:
  Oversee the monthly and quarterly analysis of merchandise performance and strategic initiatives and guide Planners in the process. Go beyond reporting by identifying root causes for performance fluctuations, assessing the impact of market trends, and providing proactive, data‑driven recommendations to senior leadership.
• Direct Forecasting and Scenario Planning:
  Take ownership of the forecasting process, guiding Planners in the development of mid‑month and end‑of‑month forecasts. Utilize advanced predictive analytics, historical data, and a deep understanding of market dynamics to create accurate forecasts. Additionally, lead complex scenario planning and financial modeling to assess risks and opportunities, providing strategic guidance for Planners as they develop category plans.
• Strategic Inventory Management:
  Partner with Demand Chain and other relevant teams to provide strategic oversight of inventory levels, sales, and product performance. Provide forecasting guidance on new items, promotions and overstocks to ensure optimal inventory health and minimize financial risk.
• Provide Strategic Input on Negotiations:
  Act as a key strategic partner in vendor negotiations by developing and presenting advanced financial models and strategic plans that inform negotiation tactics and ensure profitable outcomes.
• Influence Executive‑Level Reporting & Decisions:
  Oversee the development of high‑impact, executive‑level reports and presentations for key stakeholders, including the Board of Directors, investor relations, and the Senior Leadership Team. Lead the Category preparation for monthly business reviews (MBRs). Support key meetings to communicate performance drivers, manage accountability, and guide the reassessment of category plans by providing strategic, fact‑based insights to optimize results and meet financial goals.
• Mentor and Guide:
  Provide mentorship and guidance to Planners, helping to elevate the team's analytical capabilities and strategic thinking. Share best practices in financial modeling, data analysis, and executive‑level communication.
• Manage High‑Stakes Initiatives:
  Demonstrate the ability to independently manage multiple high‑priority projects and competing deadlines in a dynamic, fast‑paced retail environment. Consistently deliver high‑quality, impactful results that directly contribute to the company’s financial success.

Bachelors / 4 Yr Degree

6+ years of experience in retail planning, merchandising, demand forecasting, inventory management, finance, or analytics. Experience with merchandise planning tools and previous category management experience preferred. Strong proficiency in Microsoft Excel, PowerPoint, and intermediate AI tools, including use of AI for diagnostics and planning. Strong analytical and problem‑solving skills with the ability to make actionable recommendations. Excellent interpersonal and communication skills to influence…