Job Description
VANTAGE Luxe Retail Group is a premier destination for high-end fashion and lifestyle curation. We are currently seeking a highly analytical and strategic Senior Merchandise Planner to join our corporate headquarters in Manhattan. In this pivotal role, you will be the architect of our inventory investment strategy, ensuring that our product assortments align with financial goals and market demand.
The ideal candidate possesses a sophisticated understanding of the retail lifecycle, from initial procurement to final markdown. You will work at the intersection of fashion and data, collaborating closely with our Buying and Supply Chain teams to maximize profitability and minimize stock risk in an ever-evolving luxury landscape.
Responsibilities
- Lead the development and execution of seasonal merchandise financial plans (MFP) to meet sales, margin, and inventory turnover targets.
- Manage the Open-to-Buy (OTB) process, providing weekly forecasts and strategic adjustments to optimize cash flow and stock levels.
- Conduct deep-dive analysis on sales trends and product performance to identify growth opportunities and mitigate risks.
- Collaborate with the Buying team to build balanced, data-driven assortments that reflect brand identity and customer preference.
- Develop and implement effective markdown and promotional strategies to ensure healthy inventory aging and clearance.
- Present comprehensive business reviews and strategic insights to executive leadership on a monthly and quarterly basis.
- Mentor junior planning staff, fostering a culture of analytical excellence and professional growth.
Qualifications
- Bachelor’s Degree in Fashion Merchandising, Business, Finance, or a related analytical field.
- Minimum of 5-7 years of experience in retail merchandise planning, preferably within the luxury or contemporary segment.
- Advanced proficiency in Microsoft Excel (VLOOKUPs, Pivot Tables, Macros) and retail math.
- Proven expertise with enterprise-level planning software (e.g., Oracle, SAP, Blue Yonder, or Island Pacific).
- Exceptional communication skills with the ability to translate complex data into actionable business strategies.
- Strong problem-solving skills and the ability to thrive in a fast-paced, high-pressure environment.