Sr Inventory Planner

Job Overview

The Senior Inventory Planner is responsible for managing the end-to-end product lifecycle, including forecasting, inventory planning, replenishment, and vendor collaboration. This role serves as a key partner across Merchandising, Vendors, Distribution Centers, and Store Operations to ensure the right products are available in the right locations at the right time. The primary objective is to maintain optimal inventory levels across 950+ Leslie’s locations while maximizing sales, profitability, and inventory productivity.

Responsibilities

• Create, maintain, and track purchase orders to support business needs and inventory goals.
• Analyze vendor lead times and ensure products are ordered within appropriate timelines to meet demand.
• Manage purchase order activity to align with Open-to-Buy (OTB) targets and inventory strategies.
• Monitor sales performance and inventory trends to make informed decisions regarding purchase order pull-ins, push-outs, and adjustments.
• Manage and resolve backorder opportunities to support product availability.
• Develop and maintain accurate product forecasts to support inventory planning decisions.
• Manage forecast exceptions and identify opportunities for improvement.
• Manage replenishment parameters to optimize inventory levels across the business.
• Analyze sales trends and inventory performance to improve in-stock availability.
• Partner with Distribution Centers to resolve inventory discrepancies and shipment issues.
• Manage return-to-vendor (RTV) processes as needed.
• Monitor inbound inventory flow and ensure products are moving efficiently through the supply chain.
• Provide direction and support to 1–2 team members to help achieve departmental goals.
• Provide coaching, feedback, and recognition to support team development.
• Create and improve standard operating procedures (SOPs) to increase efficiency and consistency.
• Identify opportunities to improve inventory processes and business outcomes.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Business, Supply Chain, or related field preferred; or equivalent retail inventory planning experience.
• Minimum of 3 years of experience in retail, inventory planning, merchandising, or supply chain.
• Strong analytical, problem-solving, and communication skills.
• Advanced Excel skills and ability to work with inventory management systems.
• Able to manage multiple projects and priorities within established timelines.
• Able to work onsite Tuesday–Thursday.