Merchandise Planner

WHSmith North America - Las Vegas, NV

Full-time - Mid Level

Las Vegas, NV

1,001-5,000 employees

About the position

The Merchandise Planner at WHSmith North America plays a crucial role in ensuring product availability for customers by managing inventory flow through the supply chain. This position involves close collaboration with the Buying team to develop strategies that drive sales and profitability, while also preparing accurate forecasts and optimizing inventory and assortment. The Merchandise Planner will lead a small team, providing training and direction, and will be measured on key performance indicators such as sales, inventory levels, and in-store availability.

Responsibilities

• Work closely with the Planning Manager and Buying team to manage available OTB and understand category strategy.
• Accountability for category in-store availability targets and reporting.
• Communicate OTB/Availability risks to category and functional leaders and recommend actions to mitigate risks.
• Identify and recommend areas of improvement to support increases in sales or stock turn.
• Manage basic/core items in terms of projecting, ordering, and store replenishment.
• Resolve order and invoice discrepancies with vendors and internal customers.
• Utilize analytical tools to prepare reports for the team.
• Allocate merchandise and balance inventory levels by store and category.
• Build and maintain A&R forecast models and vendor review schedules.
• Create new store inventory and assortment plans in partnership with Merchandise Planners and Buyers.
• Conduct post-launch analysis of new store openings or initiatives.
• Plan and manage entrance/exit strategies of seasonal products.
• Develop relationships with vendors and internal teams for effective communication.
• Visit stores to understand customer needs and the results of planning and allocation.

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree with coursework in math or statistics preferred.
• 2+ years of work experience in a retail corporate office or stores preferred.
• 2+ years of experience in a retail planning or allocation role preferred.
• Experience with merchandising, analytics, planning, and/or allocation systems preferred.
• Robust problem-solving, analytical, and data management skills.
• Detail-oriented with high standards and accountability.
• Ability to work collaboratively and independently under tight deadlines.
• Excellent time management and prioritization skills.
• Strong communication, presentation, and people skills.
• Proficient in MS Office, especially Excel (pivot tables, lookups, advanced formulas).
• Satisfactory Criminal Background Check and Drug Testing may be required.

Nice-to-haves

• Experience with advanced Excel features like power query.

Benefits

• Medical, Dental & Vision Insurance
• FREE Life Insurance
• Short- & Long-Term Disability Insurance
• Flex Time Off
• 401k with company match
• Huge Employee Discount at all stores
• Amazing training & career path
• Competitive pay!