Group Planner - Merchandise Financial Planning

POSITION : Group Merchandise Financial Planner

REPORTS TO: Divisional Planning Manager

DIRECT REPORTS: Merchandise Financial Planners and Associate Merchandise Financial Planners

Position Summary The Group Merchandise Financial Planner (Group Planner) is responsible for developing, analyzing, and managing financial plans that support the overall merchandise strategy for a group of divisions. This position ensures that sales, margin, inventory, and profit goals are met by creating robust financial frameworks, collaborating with buying and location teams, and providing actionable insights that drive business performance.

Key Responsibilities

• Support the development of strategic merchandise plans that align with company goals
• Develop and manage pre-season and in-season merchandise financial plans including sales, markdowns, margins, inventory, and open-to-buy
• Reforecast financial plans based on performance trends and market dynamics
• Analyze historical data and current trends to identify risks and opportunities
• Provide insights on category performance, sales trends, and inventory productivity
• Partner with buyers, location planners, and allocation teams to align financial plans with assortment strategies
• Prepare and present financial reports, analysis and recommendations to senior leadership
• Monitor inventory levels and recommend actions to optimize stock-to-sales ratios
• Collaborate with allocation teams to manage replenishment and ensure timely flow of merchandise
• Manage Merchandise Financial Planner(s) and/or Associate Merchandise Financial Planner(s), fostering a high-performance and collaborative culture. Ensure team development through training, performance management, and succession planning

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Business, Finance, Merchandising, or a related field
• 3–5 years of experience in merchandise planning, financial planning, or a related retail position
• Strong analytical skills and proficiency in Excel, planning systems and reporting tools
• Deep understanding of key retail metrics (sales, gross margin, turn, weeks of supply, open-to-buy)
• Excellent communication and presentation skills with the ability to influence cross-functional partners
• Detail-oriented with the ability to manage multiple priorities and meet deadlines

Physical Requirements

• Must have adequate vision, speech, hearing, and physical ability to perform essential job functions, with or without reasonable accommodations
• Must be able to lift up to 20 pounds
• Must have full body rotation and mobility (i.e., bending, stooping, etc.)