Merchandise Planning Manager Job Description Sample Template
JOB TITLE:
- Merchandise Planning Manager
DUTIES and RESPONSIBILITIES:
- Performs business analytics at the store and product level using POS and production data.
- Evaluates KPIs through variance analysis and ROI modeling.
- Identifies risks and opportunities for the business through store and product performance and trend analysis.
- Determines product line success and suggests changes in business strategies based on findings.
- Plans and forecasts future merchandise buys and manufactured products based on historic trends, new business strategies, and current inventory levels.
- Assists with setting product pricing and promotion plans in collaboration with Marketing.
- In collaboration with the Director of Planning, Merchandising, and Allocations create a retail Open to Buy to support inventory needs as they relate to hitting sales and margin plans.
- Contributes to the S&OP process by making sure supply matches demand. Works with Supply Chain managers and production teams to ensure demand plans are achieved through on-time fulfillment and strong allocation execution.
- Develops strong professional relationships with third-party vendors and other brands in the industry that supply goods to the company.
- Creates purchase orders as necessary to procure cannabis goods that tie back to Open to Buy needs.
- Performs market and product research to bring innovative and enticing new products to the brand.
- May be responsible for supervising a small team as the department grows, including assigning work schedules, setting KPIs, providing training and coaching opportunities, and providing accountability and performance management.
- Maintains a thorough understanding of all state-specific cannabis laws and regulations that may impact function.
EXPERIENCE and QUALIFICATIONS:
- Bachelor’s degree in Business Administration required.
- 5-7 years of experience in merchandise planning, allocation, buying, inventory management, or related field required, preferably with a focus on consumer-packaged goods.
- Specialty retail buying experience preferred.
- Experienced user of Microsoft Excel, Tableau, and/or Power BI required.
- Must possess superior analytical abilities.
- Must possess excellent verbal and written communication skills.
- Experience managing and developing people preferred.
- Passion for problem-solving and delivering thoughtful strategic business plans.
- Ability to effectively manage complex projects with multiple varying deadlines and deliverables.
- Must be 21 years of age or older.
PHYSICAL DEMANDS:
- Ability to sit, stand, and walk for at least 8 hours.
- Visual acuity is needed for viewing screens and fine print.
- Manual dexterity is needed for data entry.