Inventory Planner

Rural King Inventory Planner

Rural King is America's Farm and Home Store, providing essentials to the communities we serve. With a wide array of necessities ranging from food and feed to farm and home products, Rural King serves over 130 locations across 13 states and is constantly expanding. Our annual sales exceed $2.5 Billion, and our heart beats in Mattoon, IL, home to our corporate office, distribution center, and flagship store.

One thing our customers appreciate is our unique shopping experience, complete with complimentary popcorn and coffee. It's just one way we show our appreciation for their support.

At Rural King, we value our associates and strive to create a positive, rewarding workplace. We offer growth opportunities, competitive benefits, and a people-first environment where dedicated individuals come together to serve rural communities passionately. Join us, and you'll find not just a job but a chance to grow professionally, contribute meaningfully, and make a difference in the lives of those we serve.

How we reward you:

• 401(k) plan that provides a 100% match on the first 3% of your contributions and 50% of the next 2%
• Healthcare plans to support your needs
• Virtual doctor visits
• Access to Centers of Excellence with Barnes Jewish Hospital and Mayo Clinic's Complex Care Program
• 15% Associate Discount
• Dave Ramsey's Smart Dollar Program
• Associate Assistance Program
• RK Cares Associate Hardship Program
• 24/7 Chaplaincy Services
• Company paid YMCA Family Membership

What You'll Do:

As an Inventory Planner, you will be managing and optimizing inventory investments to meet customer demand while minimizing carrying costs and maintaining service levels. The Inventory Planner works closely with the merchandising, replenishment and supply chain teams to develop inventory strategies, forecasting, and assortment plans that align with the company's financial objectives. This role is accountable for making decisions that carry a significant financial impact to the company and serves as the primary analytical resource for the merchant & replenishment teams they support.

• Develop and execute purchasing plans that optimize sales, profit, and operating cash flow.
• Lead the short-, medium-, and long-term forecasting of customer demand utilizing sophisticated demand planning tools and statistical models.
• Lead the open-to-buy process by creating practical sales and inventory plans while holding business partners accountable to financial targets. Summarize & communicate variances to plan and strategies to improve performance.
• Analyze freight flow and efficient movement of product through the supply chain; provide data-based recommendations on improving efficiency & cost to serve.
• Lead preseason strategy development and vendor planning, recommending inventory flow adjustments and assortment modifications based on individual store performance.
• Identify underperforming product categories using analysis & data-driven insights to recommend actionable improvement plans
• Complete multi-year trend analysis on products and classifications, extrapolating into scenarios to drive the next season's planning
• Create and maintain seasonal/short life cycle SKU groupings, using data and analysis tools to track inventory levels, sell-thru, and profitability.
• Provide markdown analysis and recommendations, holding business partners accountable in achieving a balance between gross profit and inventory investment.
• Use discretion and independent judgment in daily decisions while maintaining a high level of confidentiality and professionalism.
• Actively participate in learning initiatives offered such as training programs, workshops, and webinars. Leverage these opportunities to acquire new knowledge, refine existing skills, and stay current on the latest developments.
• Provide friendly, proactive, and professional internal and external support to others, assisting with inquiries, concerns, and issues promptly and effectively.
• Demonstrate behaviors that exemplify Rural King's Values:
  People First, Integrity, Attitude, Initiative, Teamwork, Accountability, and Continuous Improvement.
• Perform other duties as assigned.

Essential Qualities for Success:

• At least 4 years of related experience or equivalent combination of experience and education.
• Highly proficient in Microsoft Excel.
• Proficiency with or the ability to quickly learn Oracle Systems.
• Excellent verbal and written interpersonal and communication skills.
• Excellent customer service skills.
• Strong understanding of retail business practices.
• Excellent negotiation and conflict resolution skills.
• Demonstrated ability to adapt in a fast-paced environment.
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills.
• Excellent organizational skills and attention to detail.
• Demonstrated behaviors must reflect integrity, professionalism, and confidentiality.

Physical Requirements:

• Ability to maintain a seated or standing position for extended durations.
• Capability to lift 15 pounds periodically.
• Ability to navigate and access all…