Associate Merchandise Planner

Aeropostale•New York, NY

34d•$62,700 - $114,000•Hybrid

About The Position

We are seeking a detail-oriented and analytical Associate Merchandise Planner to join our team. The Associate Merchandise Planner is responsible for supporting the strategic direction of sales and inventory for select business categories through comprehensive analysis of financial performance, historical data, and current market insights. They will manage key performance indicators through the use of various merchandise reporting tools, ensuring top sales are being met. The ideal candidate will have strong problem-solving skills, a keen eye for detail, and a passion for driving business results.

Requirements

Minimum of 2-4 years of Merchandise Planning or related financial/analytical experience.
Global business analysis and strategic/innovative thinking skills.
Ability to present data & influence discussion with executives, peers and members of cross-functional team.
Understanding of retail financial measurements.
Excellent attention to detail.
Flexible and adaptive to changing priorities.
Strong listening, written and oral communication skills.
Able to organize and prioritize workload to meet deadlines.
High proficiency in Microsoft Excel, Microstrategy & planning tools/systems.
Travel may be required, based on business needs.
Adhere to regular in-office presence, including to engage in in-person team interaction, meetings and collaboration. Job duties may be performed effectively using the hybrid work program designated by the company.
Must have authorization to work in the United States.
Ability to safely and successfully perform the essential job functions consistent with the ADA, FMLA and other federal, state and local standards.
Ability to maintain regular and timely attendance consistent with the ADA, FMLA and other federal, state and local standards.
Ability to remain in a stationary position for up to 8 hours per day
Ability to constantly operate a computer, other office equipment and look at a monitor for up to 8 hours per day
Ability to clearly and accurately communicate and exchange information verbally, in writing, or through other means in person, telephonically, or through virtual communication methods
Ability to reach at or below shoulder level
Ability to carry equipment, move boxes/samples, etc.

Responsibilities

Execute and communicate strategic merchandise financial plans and strategies that align and support the merchandising and financial objectives of the Company.
With guidance, create pre-season sales, margin and inventory plans by department, class, and/or SKU to support product and financial strategies. Review with manager.
Analyze historical data and current trends to recap business. Identify risks and opportunities by department and by class. In partnership with manager, create strategies to align inventory with Merchant partners.
Monitor chase/commit calendar. Partner with merchandising & manager to provide sales trend direction & inventory projections for key call dates.
Develop item-level promotional and markdown strategies on a weekly basis. Partner with Merchandising & Merch Control to accuracy of system entry.
Present forecasts and action plans in open-to-buy meetings. In partnership with manager, create action plan based on forecast and lead discussions to management & cross functional teams.
Hindsight in-season & post-season performance by category. Share findings with cross functional teams.
Run & publish various weekly & ad hoc Merchandise Planning reports.
Collaborate with all levels of Planning, Merchandising, and Allocation teams from Assistants to President-CMO.
Perform other duties as assigned by supervisor as the company retains the right to change duties to this position.