Job Description
Are you a strategic thinker with a passion for retail and a proven track record in merchandise planning? Innovate Retail Group, a dynamic and rapidly growing fashion retailer, is seeking a highly skilled and analytical Senior Merchandise Planner to join our elite team in the heart of New York City. This pivotal role offers the opportunity to significantly impact our inventory strategy, drive sales, and optimize profitability across multiple product categories.
At Innovate Retail Group, we believe in fostering a collaborative environment where innovation thrives. You'll work alongside industry leaders, leveraging cutting-edge analytics and market insights to shape our future. We offer a vibrant culture, exceptional growth opportunities, and a commitment to work-life balance. If you're ready to take your career to the next level and make a tangible difference in a fast-paced retail landscape, we want to hear from you!
Responsibilities
- Develop comprehensive merchandise plans, forecasts, and strategies for assigned product categories, aligning with company financial goals and seasonal trends.
- Analyze historical data, market trends, and competitive landscape to identify opportunities and risks, providing actionable insights to optimize inventory flow.
- Manage OTB (Open-to-Buy) processes, ensuring inventory levels are balanced to support sales targets while minimizing excess stock and markdowns.
- Collaborate cross-functionally with Buying, Marketing, and Operations teams to ensure seamless execution of merchandising strategies.
- Monitor and report on key performance indicators (KPIs) such as sales, margin, turn, and inventory health, recommending adjustments as needed.
- Lead assortment planning meetings, presenting seasonal strategies and inventory allocation plans to senior management.
- Optimize pricing strategies and promotional activities in conjunction with marketing, ensuring maximum profitability.
- Mentor and develop junior planners, fostering a culture of continuous learning and high performance.
Qualifications
- Bachelor's degree in Business, Finance, Retail Merchandising, or a related field; MBA preferred.
- 5+ years of progressive experience in merchandise planning, inventory management, or demand forecasting within a retail environment, preferably fashion or apparel.
- Strong analytical skills with the ability to interpret complex data, identify trends, and make data-driven decisions.
- Expert proficiency in retail planning software (e.g., JDA, Blue Yonder, SAP, Oracle) and advanced Excel skills (VLOOKUP, pivot tables, macros).
- Demonstrated ability to manage multiple projects simultaneously in a fast-paced, deadline-driven environment.
- Excellent communication and presentation skills, with the ability to articulate complex strategies to diverse audiences.
- Proven leadership abilities with experience in mentoring or managing a small team.
- In-depth understanding of retail financial metrics, OTB processes, and inventory lifecycle management.