Merchandise Planner

The Plannerbuilds financial sales, gross margin and inventory plans for multipledepartments in a given area. Manages and plans merchandise inventory positionsand markdown strategies to drive departmental sales, inventory, profit andturnover objectives. Provides in-season financial projections andstrategies. Identifies risks andopportunities to maximize profits. Drives and/or contributes to projectsresulting in improved departmental systems and efficiencies.

PrimaryResponsibilities Include:

· Buildfinancial sales, gross margin and inventory plans at a weekly level on aseasonal basis

· Reforecastbusiness in-season based on current performance, present revised projectionsand recommendations to cross functional partners and senior leadership

· Develop,consolidate and communicate a comprehensive pre-season planning strategy thatidentifies opportunities and risks in all areas of responsibility

· Strategize,develop and present seasonal key item plans that support sales and GM goals

· Analyze:

- Promotionaleffectiveness and make future recommendations

- Performancein season and make markdown or chase recommendations

· Identifyand communicate potential inventory liabilities and drive appropriate actionsto resolution

· Partnerwith cross-functional teams to communicate division level financialmerchandising plans and merchandise strategies to support the financialobjectives

· Workwith Merchandising Team to develop promotional strategies to maximizeprofitability

· Participatein:

- Allaspects of line building process with Merchandising Lead or participate indepartment projects to improve systems or efficiencies

- Developmentof processes that build efficiencies and streamline work streams

· BAor equivalent, and 3-5 years of retail buying, planning or financial analysisexperience

· Resultsdriven; strategic, conceptual and innovative thinker

· Expertcommand of retail math concepts, applications and statistical analysis

· Detail-oriented,with excellent follow-through skills

· Stronganalytical, verbal and written communication skills

· Abilityto develop realistic work plans, goals and schedules

· Abilityto work productively in a team environment

· Proficientin Microsoft Office applications