Merchandise Planner

The Planner, Merchandise will work under minimal supervision on complex projects and may assist less experienced peers. This position has wider latitude for independent judgment and is highly skilled with extensive proficiency.

Education, Certification & Licenses

Bachelor's Degree in finance, business or economics

This position requires knowledge of forecasting and analysis acquired through formal education or 2 - 3 years on-the-job application.

Experience

Minimum 5 years experience in retail and finance

Merchandise planning and/or buying experience a plus

The Merchandise Planner is responsible for creating and maintaining sales and margin plans and forecasts by department and class across the Brand (US, Canada and Web). This position ensures that plans and forecasts align with the strategy and goals of the department.

Position Responsibilities / Essential Functions

Plan and forecast sales and margin by department and class. Create sales and margin forecasts by period and week.

Develop forecasts and scenarios by utilizing category and class trends, seasonality, ad schedules, new plano-grams (POG)/new item introductions, seasonal selling periods, and promotional events.

Present results to management for input and approval

Generate variance to plan and forecast reports for sales, margin, and inventory by week, period, and quarter.

Produce margin and productivity analysis at the category, class and SKU level as needed.

Collaborate with inventory partners to ensure inventory plans and forecasts align with merchandise strategy.

Partner and share information and analysis with cross functional teams to ensure alignment and foster collaboration.

Participate in all operational meetings with business partners where results and analytics are presented for use in the tactical decision-making process.

Identify and communicate any sales, margin, and inventory risks and opportunities that may affect goals of the department to management.

Develop and maintain effective working relationships with merchants (both retail and web) and inventory management.

Demonstrate a commitment to Party City core values.

The position responsibilities outlined above are in no way to be construed as all encompassing. Other duties, responsibilities, and qualifications may be required and/or assigned as necessary.