Virtual Retail Merchandise Planner
Location: Remote
Salary: USD 94,000 per annum
Position Overview:
We are seeking a highly skilled and motivated Virtual Retail Merchandise Planner to join our dynamic team. This role is designed for individuals who excel in a remote work environment and have a passion for retail merchandising. The ideal candidate will be responsible for creating, implementing, and managing merchandise plans that drive sales, optimize inventory levels, and align with the company's strategic goals.
Key Responsibilities:
- Merchandise Planning and Strategy:
- Develop and execute comprehensive merchandise plans for assigned categories or brands, ensuring alignment with overall business objectives.
- Analyze sales trends, market conditions, and customer preferences to forecast demand and identify growth opportunities.
- Collaborate with cross-functional teams, including marketing, operations, and finance, to ensure seamless execution of merchandise strategies.
- Inventory Management:
- Monitor inventory levels, track product performance, and adjust plans as needed to maintain optimal stock levels and minimize stockouts or overstock situations.
- Conduct regular inventory audits and implement corrective actions to address discrepancies or issues.
- Optimize inventory turnover and manage markdowns to maximize profitability and reduce excess inventory.
- Sales and Financial Analysis:
- Perform detailed sales analysis to evaluate the performance of merchandise, identify trends, and make data-driven recommendations for improvements.
- Prepare and present reports on key performance indicators (KPIs), including sales, margin, and inventory metrics, to inform strategic decision-making.
- Develop financial forecasts and budgets for merchandise categories, ensuring alignment with overall financial targets and goals.
- Vendor and Supplier Management:
- Build and maintain strong relationships with vendors and suppliers to ensure timely and cost-effective procurement of merchandise.
- Negotiate terms, pricing, and delivery schedules to achieve favorable outcomes for the company.
- Evaluate vendor performance and make recommendations for improvements or changes as necessary.
- Product Assortment and Selection:
- Curate product assortments based on market trends, customer preferences, and sales data to ensure a compelling and relevant product mix.
- Collaborate with design and product development teams to identify new product opportunities and ensure alignment with merchandising strategies.
- Review and adjust product assortments periodically based on sales performance, customer feedback, and seasonal changes.
- Technology and Tools Utilization:
- Leverage advanced retail planning software and tools to enhance merchandise planning and inventory management processes.
- Stay updated on industry trends and emerging technologies to continuously improve planning practices and processes.
- Provide training and support to team members on the use of technology and tools to maximize efficiency and effectiveness.
- Communication and Collaboration:
- Communicate effectively with team members, stakeholders, and leadership to ensure alignment on merchandise plans and strategies.
- Facilitate regular meetings and updates to keep all relevant parties informed of progress, challenges, and opportunities.
- Foster a collaborative work environment and encourage knowledge sharing and best practices within the team.
Qualifications:
- Bachelor’s degree in Merchandising, Business Administration, Finance, or a related field.
- Minimum of 3-5 years of experience in retail merchandise planning, preferably in a remote or virtual environment.
- Strong analytical skills with the ability to interpret complex data and make data-driven decisions.
- Proficiency in retail planning software, Excel, and other relevant tools.
- Excellent communication skills and the ability to work effectively in a remote team environment.
- Demonstrated ability to manage multiple priorities and meet deadlines in a fast-paced setting.
- Strong problem-solving skills and a proactive approach to addressing challenges and opportunities.
Desired Attributes:
- Experience with e-commerce or online retail merchandising.
- Familiarity with current retail trends and consumer behavior.
- Ability to adapt to changing business needs and industry developments.
- Strong attention to detail and organizational skills.
Application Process:
If you meet the qualifications and are excited about the opportunity to contribute to a thriving retail environment from a remote setting, we encourage you to apply. We value diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees.
Join us in shaping the future of retail merchandising and make a meaningful impact on our business!
Equal Opportunity Employer:
We are an equal-opportunity employer and welcome applicants from all backgrounds to apply. We celebrate diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees.