(USA) Manager, Merchandising Planning

About the role

The Manager, Merchandising Planning applies advanced expertise to develop and execute strategic action plans that align with business objectives and customer needs. This role leads financial forecasting, assortment planning, and promotional strategies using data-driven insights to optimize sales and profitability. By fostering a culture of accountability and continuous improvement, this position supports talent development and upholds company values, ensuring operational excellence and a customer-centric approach across merchandising initiatives.

About the team

The team leads cross-functional initiatives to deliver dependable automotive solutions by managing inventory, financial planning, and vendor partnerships to enhance performance. They develop and implement strategic business plans aligned with operational goals and customer needs. Focused on effective communication and adaptability, the team drives continuous improvement and supports talent development. Through collaboration and accountability, they maintain high standards of integrity and operational excellence. Utilizing data-driven decision-making, strategic planning, and proactive risk management, this group advances Walmart’s merchandising operations to achieve sustainable business outcomes.

Responsibilities

• Develop and execute merchandising and assortment plans using data-driven insights to optimize sales and gross margin.
• Lead financial forecasting and budgeting processes, providing actionable recommendations to meet category targets.
• Analyze category performance and customer trends to influence promotional strategies and feature planning.
• Collaborate cross-functionally to align forecasts, share business intelligence, and drive category growth.
• Monitor key performance indicators and provide regular financial updates to leadership.
• Mentor and guide team members to enhance skills and ensure compliance with company policies and ethical standards.
• Utilize digital tools to improve planning accuracy and operational efficiency.

Requirements

• Proven expertise in merchandising and category management with strong financial forecasting and profit and loss (P&L) management skills.
• Proficiency in assortment planning, sales optimization, and merchandise planning to drive category performance.
• Ability to analyze data and key performance indicators (KPIs) to generate actionable insights and influence business decisions.
• Experience in developing and executing financial plans aligned with business objectives and customer needs.
• Strong influencing skills to guide cross-functional teams and communicate strategic recommendations effectively.
• Commitment to ethical standards, integrity, and fostering a collaborative team environment.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Marketing or related field and 2 years’ experience in capacity planning, merchandising, forecasting, or related area OR
• 4 years’ experience in capacity planning, merchandising, forecasting, or related area.

Preferred qualifications: Experience with Profit and Loss (P&L) responsibility, working on cross-functional teams or projects, or a Master’s degree in Marketing.

Benefits

• Competitive pay with performance-based bonus awards.
• Health benefits including medical, vision, and dental coverage.
• Financial benefits including 401(k), stock purchase, and company-paid life insurance.
• Paid time off (PTO) including sick leave, parental leave, family care leave, bereavement, jury duty, and voting.
• Short-term and long-term disability coverage.
• Company discounts.
• Military Leave Pay.
• Adoption and surrogacy expense reimbursement.
• Live Better U: Walmart-paid education benefit program covering tuition, books, and fees for high school completion, bachelor’s degrees, English Language Learning, and short-form certificates (eligibility requirements apply).

Pay

The annual salary range for this position is $70,000.00 - $130,000.00. Additional compensation includes annual or quarterly performance bonuses and may include stock for certain positions.