Senior Merchandise Planner

About the Role

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. This role also acts as the primary financial liaison for category teams, ensuring seamless communication and alignment with cross-functional partners.

Responsibilities

• Lead Strategic Financial Planning: Develop and execute comprehensive annual and multi-year financial plans for assigned categories, collaborating with Category Managers and senior leaders across departments.
• Spearhead Performance Analysis: Oversee monthly and quarterly analysis of merchandise performance, identify root causes for fluctuations, and provide data-driven recommendations to senior leadership.
• Direct Forecasting and Scenario Planning: Own the forecasting process, utilizing predictive analytics and market dynamics to create accurate forecasts and lead complex scenario planning.
• Strategic Inventory Management: Partner with Demand Chain teams to provide oversight of inventory levels, sales, and product performance, ensuring optimal inventory health.
• Provide Strategic Input on Negotiations: Develop advanced financial models and strategic plans to inform vendor negotiation tactics and ensure profitable outcomes.
• Influence Executive-Level Reporting & Decisions: Oversee high-impact reports and presentations for key stakeholders, including the Board of Directors and Senior Leadership Team.
• Mentor and Guide: Elevate the team's analytical capabilities and strategic thinking by sharing best practices in financial modeling, data analysis, and executive-level communication.
• Manage High-Stakes Initiatives: Independently manage multiple high-priority projects in a fast-paced environment, delivering impactful results that contribute to the company's financial success.

Qualifications

• Education: Bachelor's degree (4-year degree)
• Experience: 6+ years in retail planning, merchandising, demand forecasting, inventory management, finance, or analytics. Experience with merchandise planning tools and category management preferred.
• Technical Skills: Strong proficiency in Microsoft Excel, PowerPoint, and intermediate AI tools. Experience using AI for diagnostics and planning.
• Analytical Skills: Strong analytical and problem-solving abilities with a track record of making actionable recommendations.
• Communication Skills: Excellent interpersonal and communication skills to influence stakeholders at all levels.
• Work Environment: Comfortable working in a matrix organization with fast-paced, cross-functional collaboration.

Skills

• Financial acumen and forecasting
• Critical thinking and analytical reasoning
• Strategic business partnership
• Agile mindset and adaptability
• Data visualization and storytelling
• Proficiency in technical tools

*Position not eligible for sponsorship.