Forecast Analyst

Overview

REI Co-op is united in finding better ways to work. The goal is to help people find and enjoy the outdoors. When you work for the co-op, you do your best work, and you also get support to live your best life. You help shape the future of the outdoors for people and the planet.

This job helps REI succeed through examination, accurate forecasting, vendor relations, and managing product inventory to meet financial goals. You will keep solid business relationships and communication with Merchandising Product and Replenishment teams, vendor partners, and cross‑divisional colleagues, and you will provide detailed and accurate business insights to support growth for Retail stores and Digital businesses. You will model and act according to REI’s guiding values and mission.

• Own the creation of seasonal forecasts for product demand based on research and input from Merchant Product partners.
• Partner with the Category Planning Manager (CPM) to reconcile category forecasts with seasonal financial plans, ensuring goals are achievable and presenting the plan to department leadership.
• Examine and act on product trends and performance with a forward‑looking mindset to deliver sales.
• Apply sound financial actions to a product strategy to deliver growth.
• Manage product inventory flow in‑season and pre‑season to achieve performance goals.
• Initiate and manage purchase orders.
• Drive vendor accountability for delivery accuracy and timeliness, negotiating to achieve profitability goals.
• Manage markdown planning and product end‑of‑lifecycle recommendations.

• Use proven communication skills to engage and challenge others for the achievement of business goals.
• Provide insights and feedback to Merchant Product & Planning partners to influence better assortment planning.
• Provide ad‑hoc examination and reporting to support business needs as a category specialist.
• Partner with Merchandising Data Specialist & Assistant Category Merchant to manage open orders.
• Partner with Replenishment Analyst on funding and prioritizing in‑season item reactions.

• Pursue self‑development through work with your Manager, training, and networking with other FAs.
• Develop change‑management skills to thrive in an expanding work environment.
• Take part in cross‑functional project opportunities to gain a co‑op‑wide perspective.

• Minimum 2 years merchandising experience.
• Bachelor’s Degree.
• Familiarity and interest in REI products, activities, and services.
• PC proficiency in Microsoft Windows, Office (Excel, Word, Outlook, Explorer).
• Experience with product trend and inventory examination, forecasting, acquisition, allocation, and management for multiple stores and digital sales.
• Knowledge and effective execution of merchandising math methods (open‑to‑buy, initial mark‑up, gross margin, markdowns, shrink, damages, inventory turnover).
• Excellent communication skills, business sense, creative thinking, and good judgment to solve problems or find business opportunities.

At REI, we believe the outdoors is for all. We are committed to becoming a fully inclusive, anti‑racist, multicultural organization. We know that there is strength in our diversity and each employee brings unique skills, experiences, and perspectives. Every day you are driving change, fostering a culture of respect, and being backed by benefits that support your whole life.

REI offers all regular employees a generous employee discount, access to health benefits, a retirement savings plan, and accrued time off.

$74,400.00 – $ per year