Merchandise Planner

Petco

3d • $66,000 - $99,000

About The Position

Merchandise Planner Position Overview The Merchandise Planner plays a strategic role in driving sales, optimizing inventory, and enhancing customer satisfaction through data-driven planning and forecasting. This role requires a deep understanding of niche markets, seasonal trends, and customer preferences to ensure the right products are available at the right time and place.

Requirements

• Analytical Thinking: Strong ability to interpret data and forecast trends
• Retail Acumen: Deep understanding of specialty retail dynamics and customer behavior
• Communication: Clear and collaborative communication across departments
• Technical Proficiency: Advanced Excel skills; experience with planning tools (e.g., JDA, SAP, Oracle)
• Strategic Mindset: Ability to balance short-term needs with long-term business goals
• Bachelor’s degree in Business, Merchandising, Finance, or related field
• 3–5 years of experience in merchandise planning, preferably in specialty retail

Nice To Haves

• Experience with omnichannel retail and inventory optimization tools is a plus

Responsibilities

• Planning & Forecasting Develop and maintain merchandise financial plans by category, season, and store/channel
• Forecast sales, margin, and inventory targets based on historical data and market trends
• Collaborate with buying teams to build assortments that align with brand strategy and customer demand
• Inventory & Allocation Monitor inventory levels and recommend replenishment strategies to minimize stockouts and overstocks
• Partner with allocation teams to ensure optimal product distribution across stores and channels
• Identify slow-moving items and propose markdowns, promotions, or reallocation strategies
• Financial Analysis Analyze performance metrics including sell-through, turn, margin, and ROI
• Prepare weekly/monthly business reviews and present insights to cross-functional teams
• Support pricing and promotional strategies to maximize profitability
• Cross-Functional Collaboration Work closely with merchandising, marketing, supply chain, and store operations teams
• Provide planning input for product launches, seasonal campaigns, and store openings
• Communicate inventory risks and opportunities to leadership

Benefits

• For a more detailed overview of Petco Total Rewards, including health and financial benefits, 401K, incentives, and PTO -see https://careers.petco.com/us/en/key-benefits

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Mid Level
• Number of Employees: 5,001-10,000 employees