Job Description
Are you a strategic retail professional with a passion for driving sales and optimizing inventory? Zenith Merch Solutions, a leading innovator in high-growth retail environments, is seeking a talented Senior Merchandise Planner to join our dynamic team in New York City. This is an unparalleled opportunity to shape product strategies, forecast trends, and impact our brand's success directly.
At Zenith, we believe in fostering a collaborative and forward-thinking culture. You'll be instrumental in developing comprehensive merchandise plans across multiple categories, ensuring optimal stock levels, maximizing profitability, and enhancing the customer experience. If you thrive in a fast-paced environment and possess a keen analytical mind, we invite you to contribute to our continued expansion and excellence.
Responsibilities
- Develop and manage comprehensive merchandise financial plans, including sales, margin, and inventory targets, for assigned categories.
- Conduct in-depth analysis of sales performance, inventory levels, and market trends to identify opportunities and risks.
- Collaborate closely with buying, allocation, and marketing teams to align on product strategies and promotional activities.
- Forecast demand accurately, implement effective inventory flow strategies, and manage open-to-buy to optimize stock levels.
- Identify and implement strategies to minimize markdowns and maximize gross margin.
- Prepare and present seasonal and annual business reviews, providing actionable insights to leadership.
- Mentor junior team members and contribute to a culture of continuous improvement and data-driven decision making.
- Drive innovation in planning processes and tools to enhance efficiency and accuracy.
Qualifications
- Bachelor's degree in Business, Finance, Merchandising, or a related field.
- 5+ years of progressive experience in merchandise planning or inventory management within a retail environment.
- Proven expertise with merchandise planning software (e.g., JDA, Oracle Retail) and advanced Excel skills.
- Strong analytical, problem-solving, and decision-making abilities.
- Excellent communication and interpersonal skills, capable of influencing cross-functional teams.
- Demonstrated ability to manage multiple priorities and work effectively in a fast-paced, evolving landscape.
- A deep understanding of retail KPIs, inventory management best practices, and financial drivers.
- Experience with fashion, luxury goods, or consumer electronics retail is a plus.