Remote Product Merchandise Planner

Description

Remote Product Merchandise Planner

Location: Remote

Annual Salary: USD 95,000

Position Overview:

We are seeking a skilled and detail-oriented Remote Product Merchandise Planner to join our dynamic team. The ideal candidate will have a proven track record in merchandise planning and be adept at using data-driven strategies to optimize inventory levels and drive product performance. As a Product Merchandise Planner, you will be responsible for developing and executing merchandise plans that align with company goals, ensuring the right products are available at the right time and place to meet customer demand.

Key Responsibilities:

  1. Merchandise Planning & Strategy:
    • Develop and implement comprehensive merchandise plans to support sales targets, profitability goals, and inventory management.
    • Analyze historical sales data, market trends, and customer insights to create accurate sales forecasts and inventory plans.
    • Collaborate with cross-functional teams, including marketing, sales, and supply chain, to ensure alignment with overall business objectives and strategies.
  2. Inventory Management:
    • Monitor inventory levels and turnover rates to optimize stock levels and minimize excess or obsolete inventory.
    • Use advanced forecasting tools and methodologies to predict demand and adjust inventory plans accordingly.
    • Implement and manage inventory replenishment strategies to ensure timely product availability and avoid stockouts.
  3. Performance Analysis:
    • Track and analyze sales performance, inventory metrics, and market trends to assess the effectiveness of merchandise plans.
    • Prepare and present regular reports on key performance indicators (KPIs) and recommendations for improvement.
    • Conduct post-seasonal analysis to evaluate the success of merchandise plans and identify opportunities for future enhancements.
  4. Product Selection & Assortment Planning:
    • Work with buyers and suppliers to select and curate product assortments that meet customer needs and drive sales.
    • Assess product performance and adjust assortments based on sales data, customer feedback, and market trends.
    • Ensure that product selections align with seasonal trends, promotions, and merchandising strategies.
  5. Budget Management:
    • Develop and manage merchandise budgets, including sales forecasts, inventory investments, and markdowns.
    • Monitor budget performance and implement cost-control measures to ensure financial targets are met.
    • Collaborate with finance teams to ensure accurate budgeting and financial planning.
  6. Collaboration & Communication:
    • Maintain effective communication with internal teams and external partners to ensure seamless execution of merchandise plans.
    • Participate in regular meetings with key stakeholders to provide updates, address issues, and align on strategic objectives.
    • Foster positive relationships with vendors and suppliers to negotiate favorable terms and ensure timely product delivery.
  7. Continuous Improvement:
    • Stay informed about industry trends, best practices, and emerging technologies in merchandise planning.
    • Recommend and implement process improvements to enhance efficiency and effectiveness in merchandise planning and inventory management.
    • Provide training and support to team members on merchandise planning tools, techniques, and best practices.

Qualifications:

  • Bachelor’s degree in Business, Merchandising, or a related field. An advanced degree or professional certification is a plus.
  • Proven experience as a Merchandise Planner or in a similar role, with a strong understanding of merchandise planning and inventory management principles.
  • Proficiency in merchandise planning software and tools, including Excel, ERP systems, and forecasting applications.
  • Excellent analytical skills, with the ability to interpret data, identify trends, and make data-driven decisions.
  • Strong organizational and time-management skills, with the ability to manage multiple tasks and priorities in a remote work environment.
  • Effective communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to collaborate with cross-functional teams and build strong relationships with vendors and suppliers.
  • A proactive and results-oriented mindset, with a focus on achieving business goals and driving performance improvements.

Working Conditions:

  • This is a remote position, offering flexibility in work location and schedule.
  • The role may require occasional travel to meet with suppliers or attend industry events.
  • Candidates must have a reliable internet connection and a dedicated workspace to perform job responsibilities effectively.

Application Process:

To apply for this position, please submit your resume and a cover letter outlining your qualifications and experience. We look forward to hearing from talented professionals who are passionate about merchandise planning and eager to contribute to our success.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. How does the Remote Product Merchandise Planner ensure merchandise plans align with sales and profitability goals?

The Remote Product Merchandise Planner develops data-driven merchandise strategies by analyzing historical sales data, market trends, and customer insights. Collaboration with cross-functional teams, such as marketing and supply chain, ensures that merchandise plans align with overall business objectives and financial targets.

2. What tools and software are used by the Remote Product Merchandise Planner to optimize inventory management?

The Remote Product Merchandise Planner utilizes advanced forecasting tools, merchandise planning software, ERP systems, and applications like Excel to monitor inventory levels, predict demand, and manage inventory replenishment. These tools help streamline operations and maintain optimal stock levels.

3. How does the Remote Product Merchandise Planner curate product assortments to meet customer needs?

The Remote Product Merchandise Planner works with buyers and suppliers to select products based on customer feedback, sales performance, and market trends. By aligning assortments with seasonal trends and promotional activities, the planner ensures the product mix remains relevant and appealing.

4. How does the Remote Product Merchandise Planner evaluate the effectiveness of merchandise strategies?

The Remote Product Merchandise Planner tracks performance metrics such as sales, inventory turnover, and profitability. Regular reporting and post-seasonal analysis help identify areas for improvement and inform future strategies to enhance product performance and meet customer demand.

5. What opportunities for professional growth are available for the Remote Product Merchandise Planner?

The organization supports professional development through access to training, certifications, and industry events. The Remote Product Merchandise Planner can advance to leadership roles or specialize further in areas like e-commerce merchandising, inventory optimization, or strategic planning.

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