Merchandise Planning Associate

Merchandise Planning Associate

New York City, NY, United States

Full time Schedule

$81,840 - $136,320 Annually*

* based on job, location, and schedule

The Associate, Merchandise Planner sets financial targets for sales, margin, and receipts by channel and department. They drive bottom-up merchandise financial plans that align with Buyer’s category strategies. In-season, they maintain rolling forecasts at the department(s) level and work with the Buyer to manage the business. Additionally, they collaborate with Inventory Managers to review product flow and mitigate risks. The Associate performs other duties as assigned.

• Translate top-down GFOB & Division financial targets to the department level
• Collaborate with Buyers to develop a monthly department-level bottom-up build, emphasizing sales, margin, and turn in line with the category strategy
• Develop in-season Rolling Operating Forecast for sales, margin, and inventory
• Gather input from Buyers and Inventory Managers to maintain a weekly inventory forecast, including updates on vendor-specific shipping
• Support the assignment of stores to division/department volume clusters
• Manage department-level Open-to-Buy (OTB) in collaboration with Buyers
• Review business performance by channel, focusing on highlights and opportunities
• Assess current inventory levels and evaluate Rolling Operating Forecast (ROF) based on beginning of month (BOM), receipts, and end of month (EOM) plans
• Evaluate opportunities and risks related to adjusting core parameters, allocations, markdowns, and promotions to achieve sales, margin, and inventory objectives
• Develop action plans with buyers to meet financial targets
• Establish and maintain store clusters at the department level and above to align with financial plans
• Foster an environment of acceptance and respect that strengthens relationships, and ensures authentic connections with colleagues, customers, and communities
• Ensure regular, dependable attendance and punctuality

Financial Acumen
:
Proficiency in setting financial targets for sales, margin, and receipts, along with the ability to translate top-down financial targets to the department level

Forecasting Analysis
:
Capability to develop in-season Rolling Operating Forecasts for sales, margin, and inventory, as well as conducting forecasting analysis to support decision-making

Inventory Optimization
:
Skill in collaborating with Inventory Managers to review product flow, assess current inventory levels, and optimize inventory management strategies

Risk and Opportunity Assessment
:
Ability to identify and quantify risks and opportunities within the business, evaluating adjustments to core parameters, allocations, markdowns, and promotions to achieve financial objectives

Communication Skills
:
Practice of open and continuous communication, with the ability to effectively present information in a clear and concise manner, keeping stakeholders informed

Leadership and Interpersonal Skills
:
Excellent leadership, facilitation, and interpersonal skills, enabling effective collaboration with Buyers, Inventory Managers, and other stakeholders across functional lines and organizational levels

Creative and Strategic Thinking
:
Capability to think creatively, strategically, and technically, contributing to the development of innovative solutions and strategies aligned with business goals

• Candidates with a bachelor’s degree or equivalent work experience in a related field are encouraged to apply
• 4+ years in Financial or Merchandise Planning.
• Able to work a flexible schedule based on department and company needs
• This role involves performing essential job functions such as communication, collaboration, and use of office and computer systems. Responsibilities include the ability to access and review written and electronic information, and to move within the work environment and interact with workplace materials as needed to carry out job responsibilities.

Join a team where work is as rewarding as it is fun! We offer a dynamic, inclusive environment with competitive pay and benefits. Enjoy comprehensive health and wellness coverage and a 401(k) match to invest in your future. Prioritize your well-being with paid time off and eight paid holidays. Grow your career with continuous learning and leadership development. Plus, build community by joining one of our Colleague Resource Groups and make a difference through our volunteer opportunities.

• Merchandise discounts
• Performance-based incentives
• Annual merit review
• Employee Assistance Program with mental health counseling and legal/financial advice
• Tuition reimbursement

This job description is not all-inclusive.
Macy's, Inc. reserves the right to amend this job description at any time.
Macy's, Inc. is an Equal Opportunity Employer, committed to a diverse and inclusive work environment.