Merchandise Planner
Job Description
The Merchandise Planner will use a data-driven approach to optimize sales, margin and inventory in an omnichannel environment. They will forecast future seasonal demand at category - subcategory level for each region, maximize sell-thru in-season by collaborating with key stakeholders: Commercial, Finance, Ecommerce and Buying. Responsible to lead the OTB working in collaboration with commercial, Finance, Ecommerce as well as other roles within Supply Chain.
What you'll need to succeed
- Strong analytical and critical-thinking skills
- Strong business acumen and strong attention to detail
- Excellent communication with the ability to influence and challenge
- Confident, adaptable, and diplomatic (confidence in making decisions and identifying key actions)
- Strong time management and prioritization skills
- Willing to listen and collaborate effectively
- Resilient and able to work under pressure
- 5 years experience in planning for different multiple categories
- Advanced Excel proficiency
- SAP is a plus
Responsibilities Duties:
- Define the sales plan and OTB to develop the merchandise strategy, using data-driven input from sales trends, market conditions and supplier demands to drive profitable decision making.
- Monitor inventory aging and recommend actions on markdowns and liquidation to achieve inventory targets considering category and brand identity.
- Drive pricing strategy and plan seasonal markdowns by item to maximize sales and gross margin in collaboration with Buying and Retail.
- Assess and highlight risks and opportunities on sales, gross margin and inventory, based on supply or demand gaps, recommending possible solutions.
- Re-plan business in-season based on latest performance and present it to management with recommendations.
- Develop and provide buying with category assortment recommendations plans by channel / region / store which are aligned with the merchandise strategy and proactively suggest improvements to optimize revenue and profitability.
- Monitor inventory mix in each location and recommend seasonal stock transfers, if needed, in order to boost sales.