Associate - Merchandise Planner

The purpose of the Merchandise Planner role is to optimize sales, margin, and inventory by building accurate forecasts, managing OTB, and translating commercial strategy into balanced stock and supply plans across channels. It ensures the right product is in the right place at the right time through close collaboration with cross-functional teams, disciplined execution, and continuous performance analysis to drive sell-through and minimize risk. Create & maintain demand forecast, OTB (Open to Buy) and inventory plans (MSSI) by collaborating with Buying, Finance, Retail, and Ecommerce teams. Utilize sales data, market conditions, and supplier inputs to help inform merchandise strategies and support profitable decision-making. Develop stock and supply plans at the brand level, broken down by channel and brand, based on sales and buying budgets. Oversee store allocation and replenishment parameters. Prepare and input data for internal Sales and Operations Planning (S&OP) processes. Build capacity plans that account for supply chain, logistics, and vendor constraints. Manage markdown and liquidation plans to optimize inventory turnover. Monitor key planning KPIs such as Full Price Sell-Through, stock levels, ISA, DOI, OTIF. What You’ll Need To Succeed: 2-3 years of experience in merchandise and supply planning, preferably in retail, fashion, or related industries. Hands-on expertise with planning tools, such as Blue Yonder, SAP, or similar advanced systems. Proven ability to manage seasonal and permanent product planning cycles effectively. Bachelor’s degree in Supply Chain Management, Business Administration, or a related field. Strong analytical skills and attention to detail. Excellent collaboration and communication skills. Knowledge of inventory management principles, OTB calculations, and markdown planning.