Associate Planner

As an Associate Planner you will work closely with the Buying, and Allocation teams to develop and review assortment plans and manage OTB strategies. This role works as an integral part of the Merchandising and Planning and Allocation teams by identifying risks and opportunities and making recommendations to ensure that we are maximizing the profitability of the assortment.

• Develop and maintain merchandise plans for several categories of product
• Make recommendations to the buying team on product receipt and liquidation timing                
• Ensure delivery of the financial objectives of the area through accurate and proactive management and forecasting of sales, mark-up and markdowns.
• Develop and deliver merchandise analysis to inform and guide executive decision making
• Partner with allocation on the timing and quantity of receipts of new and existing product to flow into the stores
• Support the department’s weekly reporting needs
• Maintain and update the open-to-buy daily, weekly and monthly, as needed
• Participate in a cross-functional team

• Bachelor’s Degree required
• 1+ year experience in Planning and/or Allocation
• Technical knowledge in PC based systems and application software (systems like: JDA Allocation, Arthur Planning, MMS and/or Island Pacific are useful)
• Prior retail experience preferred
• High degree of proficiency in MS Office Suite, Outlook & Internet applications
• Strong analytical, prioritizing, interpersonal, problem-solving, and presentation skills
• Ability to operate independently while establishing strong working relationships with co-workers and cross-functional teams
• Strong, professional and effective verbal and written communication skills
• Ability to foster a positive and motivating work environment, encouraging feedback and innovation
• Self-motivated with critical attention to detail and deadlines
• Ability to adapt well to change in direction and priority in a fast- paced and deadline-oriented environment

• Results Orientation: demonstrates the ability to consistently deliver business results by meeting deadlines and achieving goals
• Communication: effectively conveys information and ideas in concise and meaningful exchanges through written and verbal communication
• Teamwork/Collaboration: effectively develops relationships and encourages idea-sharing that facilitates the accomplishment of goals
• Initiative: proactively seeks opportunities to work outside of job scope to assist department or cross-functional team and demonstrates the ability to go beyond what is required to achieve goals
• Personal Adaptability: demonstrates the ability to embrace change and effectively adjusts to new or altered processes within the business environment